Creative ID: 641
Rotorua
My arts or creative practice (including details about my specific focus within that art form/practice and my strengths):
I am a children’s book author and illustrator. I have been a practising artist and community tutor for thirty years in NZ and the UK. I did a degree in textiles and work with lots of mixed media. I also make character dolls, paint murals, and do many commissions. I’m a trained youth worker and have worked extensively with troubled youth. I have also worked with gifted and talented children and done drama classes.
My track record of experience and success - or the track record of experience and success of the creative or artist that I will partner with:
I have a honours degree in fashion and textiles and a diploma in visual arts. I have been a practicing artist for 30 years. I set up my own business in the UK working with schools, youth clubs, young offenders, and preschool classes, alongside exhibiting and selling my own mixed media paintings. Some of my work is still in museums and centres in the UK. In NZ, I did 8 years at playcentre. I lectured at Auckland University in early childhood creativity.
I set up my own studio in Auckland teaching between 50 and 70 people a week. I’ve lived in Rotorua for two years. I’ve published two books that I have written and illustrated. My first booking won two gold awards in pride of print. I have worked alongside two local artists doing murals for the council and have recently done a solo mural for a cafe. I did many murals in the UK too.
Describe the experience you have had working with children or young people, teaching or facilitating creative processes:
As mentioned under track record above, I have extensive community arts teaching in NZ and in the UK with arts centres, schools youth clubs, and community centres, as well as my own art studio where I taught up to 70 people a week.
Why I want to be part of the Creatives in Schools programme and how my involvement will link to my creative practice:
I feel I have lots to offer children. I am passionate about the creative experience and have a wealth of experience to draw from.