I have first hand seen the changes art can make

 

I have been making models and creating creatures in one form or another all my life. As a child I could generally be found by following the trail of plasticine crumbs. Over the subsequent years I have never lost the love of creating things, or managed to get my head out of the clouds despite what I was told.

I unknowingly, first through developing skills during my degree and later by becoming an art teacher built up the skills necessary to work with diverse groups and nurture the creative spark within them to deliver community  projects. I feel a great sense of joy personally by helping other realize their work.

I began my community artist work initially unintended, simply being asked to work with a group of people and help them achieve their artistic aims, I did, and from there it grew. I now truly see the power for development and change using art and creativity as a catalyst to make a difference. People love to create, creativity is not only powerful for an individual in many ways but I would go as far as to say essential. Seeing understanding dawn in someone’s eyes that they have made a difference to others all while making friends, and having fun, surrounded by a feeling of significance is a powerful experience.

I now use my understanding of art, creativity and development to foster connections to other people and groups and help them make significant changes in their lives and that of others.