I am a visual artist and creative projects manager. I studied at Sheffield Hallam and Manchester Met, graduating in 1996.  I began my role as arts programme manager at Yorkshire Artspace in 2000. I developed a range of artists’ development programmes including start-up programmes for emerging artists and an artist residency programme for local, national and international artists. I left the organisation in 2014 to re-connect with my own work as an artist. I also still develop and manage various creative projects on a freelance basis and for the NHS.

I have a keen interest in delving into the life stories of individuals, particularly those who were born in a different country and later relocated to the UK. Exploring the nuances of their journeys, adapting to new environments, and uncovering the factors that facilitate their adjustment, growth, and sense of connection to a place are at the core of my investigation. This curiosity is deeply rooted in my own personal narrative of immigrating to the UK when I was just 22 years old.

Alongside developing my projects with community groups who experience these journeys, I also work as a part-time arts coordinator for Sheffield Teaching Hospitals. In this role, I oversee the commissioning of artists across a diverse range of disciplines, facilitating collaborations with predominantly long-stay inpatient groups. In 2017, I developed the 'In & Out of Hospital' arts programme that won the Building Better Healthcare 'Patients Choice' Award in 2018 for its innovative approach. This programme continued until its completion in February 2024.

I find that, in both my practice as an artist and work as arts coordinator, I have similar concerns around the importance of creating an inclusive and supportive environment for individuals whose lives have been profoundly affected by life experiences. I am deeply interested in fostering connections between people and organisations to enhance learning opportunities and cultivate innovative approaches that can lead to impactful transformations for those who develop and deliver the services, as well as those who participate and benefit.

One recent project consisted of a year-long series of collaborative events with 2 refugee support organisations, six organisations based in The Peak District National Park and commissioned artists who developed complementary activities within the nature-based events programme. The book ‘Wish You Were Here’ was published in April 2023.