Some background and examples of art

Biography

I have over 35 years experience of working in the visual arts sector as an exhibiting artist, curator, arts facility manager and educator. I established Arts Creative to deliver high-quality art workshops to schools, community groups and within health settings. I use traditional and innovative techniques to support creativity, wellbeing, education and community development. Techniques include painting, drawing, digital processes, 3D construction and all forms of printmaking. The visual arts provide a limitless source of material and techniques through which to foster skill development, personal growth, community development, emotional wellbeing and issue awareness.

I have been the Creative Director of Seacourt Print Workshop, a founding director of Catalyst Arts, a founder of Ards Arts Collective, The Creative Peninsula and a Rudolf Steiner Art Teacher, I have devised numerous innovative programmes for engaging the public in creative activities. My specialist areas include creativity, wellbeing, education, community development and project management. My artwork is held within the collections of the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Trinity College and the Hong Kong Open Print Studio. I have exhibited regionally and internationally including at the Halls of Science NYC.

Organisations I have worked with include: Action Mental Health, Alzhiemers Society, Cedar Foundation, Jigsaw NI, Fibromyalgia Support North Down and Ards, Positive Futures Ulster Museum, Ulster Folk and Transport Museum, FE McWilliam Gallery, Armagh Planetarium, Queens University Marine Lab, the National Trust, Borough Councils, over forty secondary schools across Northern Ireland and numerous primary schools. Internationally I have worked in partnership with Arizona State University, John Brown University AR, Pyramid Atlantic DC, Vanha Paukkua Finland, Wharepuke Gallery NZ, University of Vienna and given presentations at international conferences and symposia.