Creative ID: 780
Carterton, Wairarapa
My arts or creative practice (including details about my specific focus within that art form/practice and my strengths)
I'm a painter, currently undertaking a Fine Arts Degree at Whitecliffe College of Art. My focus is on pattern relating to matriarchal craft traditions. I regularly paint with my young neighbours and am very keen to make painting accessible to everyone. I don't like the idea that you 'have' to be talented to be an artist – I believe everyone can enjoy and get value from painting and am happy to tailor my lessons to ensure that kids can be proud of their creations. I also love working with collage. Links to samples of my work are available on request.
My track record of experience and success - or the track record of experience and success of the creative or artist that I will partner
I have painted two murals, one for a Buddhist centre and another for a special needs school in Lower Hutt. I won a People’s Choice award for one painting which was part of the Mahara Review (Kāpiti District Art Gallery) and have since had two solo art exhibitions.
Describe the experience you have had working with children or young people, teaching or facilitating creative processes
I worked for eight years as a school librarian. (Primary, Intermediate and college-aged.) I worked as Youth Services Coordinator for Kapiti Coast District Council and organised many holiday programmes for kids and also established and facilitated a teen arts club. While at KCDC I also managed the annual arts trail for two years. I regularly (at least monthly) teach my young neighbours (8 & 9) to paint and have done since they were 5 & 6.
Why I want to be part of the Creatives in Schools programme and how my involvement will link to my creative practice
I think this would be a nice way to connect with my community. I’ve only been in Carterton four years and because I work in the city I haven't made a lot of local connections. This would be a natural fit for me: I believe everyone can benefit from the arts and I would love to be the one to help break down barriers/limitations. I would also like to develop this over coming years and commit more time as I am able.