My artistic practice is deeply rooted in the belief that art has the power to foster social cohesion, spark dialogue, and build stronger communities. As a socially engaged artist, I strive to create meaningful experiences that connect people, celebrate shared heritage, and explore diverse perspectives.

Core Principles:

• Social Cohesion: My projects often involve bringing people together from different backgrounds to participate in a shared creative process. Whether it’s recreating iconic film scenes (Hullywood Icons), exploring the experiences of refugees (The Stranger’s Tale), or capturing the diverse faces of a city (The Changing Face of Hull), the goal is to strengthen community bonds and foster a sense of belonging.
• Communication as a Cornerstone: Open and effective communication is central to my work. I am a trained listener and a skilled communicator, employing models like NLP to ensure clear understanding and collaboration. This is evident in my work with diverse groups, from primary school children to marginalised communities, as well as in facilitating workshops and training sessions.
• Co-authorship and Empowerment: I believe in the power of co-authorship, where participants are not just subjects but active creators in the artistic process. This approach empowers individuals, validates their experiences, and ensures that the work reflects the authentic voices of the community. Projects like the Whitby Visual Arts Commission exemplify this collaborative spirit.
• Novel Lines of Enquiry: My work often involves exploring uncharted territories and posing new questions. I am driven by a curiosity to delve into social issues, historical narratives, and the human condition. This is reflected in projects that explore themes of identity, belonging, and the evolving nature of communities. I use my work to facilitate research and the development of new knowledge.
• The Pursuit and Sharing of Knowledge: I am committed to lifelong learning and the dissemination of knowledge. This is evident in my own professional development (e.g., the Old Dog New Tricks year) as well as in the educational outreach programmes and workshops I lead. I believe that art can be a powerful tool for education and social change.
• Socially Engaged Art Practice: My work is fundamentally engaged with the social fabric. I actively seek opportunities to address social issues, give voice to the underrepresented, and use art as a catalyst for dialogue and understanding. My involvement in campaigns and my training as a Green Councillor further demonstrate this commitment.
• Iterative Approach: My creative process is iterative and responsive. I embrace flexibility and adapt to new insights and developments that emerge during the project lifecycle. This allows for organic growth, authentic collaboration, and a deeper connection with the subject matter. I am constantly developing my practice and skills, for instance, training in NLP and coaching. My practice is constantly evolving and changing through my experiences of making work and learning from the people I work with.
• New Technology for Engagement: I am passionate about utilising new technologies to engage and involve audiences in innovative ways. From incorporating digital projections in public spaces to creating interactive websites and using social media for outreach, I embrace technology as a means of expanding participation and creating immersive experiences. I have worked as a sound engineer and a digital editor in film and photography. I have built websites for a number of my projects and am proficient in using social media to engage audiences and involve them in my work.

In essence, my work is driven by a desire to create participatory, thought-provoking, and socially relevant art that empowers individuals, strengthens communities, and fosters a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. I believe that art can be a powerful force for positive change, and I am committed to using my skills and experience to make a meaningful contribution to society.