13 February 2015

Illustration by Hannah Carding

 

What is your connection with Creativity Works?: (e.g. volunteer, participant, artist)

I work with them as an artist

How did you first come across Creativity Works?

In Spring 2014 as partners for an art project in Bath called FreshArt. They were wonderful project steerers, organisers and inspiration!

Which projects have you been involved with?

FreshArt, My Time My Space, ‘Ways and Means’ and Home Service.

What have you enjoyed the most about working with Creativity Works?

The emphasis on social engagement. For me that is really important. I have been on two co creates, both of which were excellent and this is really helpful element to any artists practice. I like the meetings! Although there are often lots sometimes (!) for me meeting in person is the best way to work together and our meetings are always very productive. Also, they have dogs! I love dogs!

What have you found surprising about Creativity Works? 

How much they achieve on a shoe string and with just a small but AMAZING team of people. I think they should have a medal.

In what way has Creativity Works been of value or support to you?

Training days. Ailsa coming along to some of the Home Service workshops – great to have her support and perspective. Also her emailing other projects and ideas – I research myself too but it takes such a lot of time and having someone else’s input makes a big difference. Also their value of working with volunteers – I’ve found my volunteers Irene and Kate just wonderful people to work with, intuitive, kind and so helpful and giving of their time. This relationship is really important.

What has been your biggest professional , personal or creative achievement to date?

One, that the Imperial War Museum London have a collection of my etchings in their print archives and that I designed and ran a screen printing project with a group of people with mental health issues – it was very demanding but very rewarding!

Do you have any creative aspirations for the future (with or without Creativity Works)?

Yes lots! I’m planning on getting some books published and more exhibitions. I’m also launching a new collection of greetings cards and t-towels that I sell online and in markets and hope to get into shops. It all takes a long time and a lot of work. Learning InDesign and Photoshop will certainly help this!