I graduated in Fine Art from Loughborough University and continue to pursue and exhibit my own artistic work. My practice is conceptually based on a satirical perspective of the world we live in today and touches on themes of sociological change precipitated by the avalanche of technological advancement, media saturation, sustainability and increased consumerist ideals. I primarily use oil painting as the vehicle for expressing my ideas. I love the materiality of oil paint and experimenting with the aesthetic of mixing photorealist tropes with impressionist styles and cartoon aspects. I am particularly interested in playing with the conventions of painting tradition while exploring contemporary themes.

Since 2012 I have become increasingly involved within community arts and arts and health. I began my career in community arts at Art Works, which offers schools and groups a means to plan and develop a more creative approach to learning. A major focus of this work was promoting accessibility and encouraging creativity. Working in Belfast, we also used art as a way to challenge its existing sectarian and social divisions.

I have also worked as an artist with Arts Care Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, based at Musgrave Park Hospital. This offered the opportunity for patients and staff to be involved in the creative process in a variety of media such as painting, printmaking, textiles, ceramics, mosaic and sculpture. Working with such a broad range of people required tailoring projects to cater for mixed abilities and needs. This work introduced me to how art can be utilized as a healing tool. Within the context of healthcare, the art-making process has many therapeutic benefits and can be used as a means of enjoyment, relaxation and social inclusion, offering a sense of purpose and creating meaningful artworks. I seek to foster these benefits in the art classes I currently teach.

As my career has developed so has my interest and experience in teaching and communicating art to others. I am passionate about the potential of art to develop a more creative approach to learning. I am a strong advocate for facilitating learning in alternative ways and approaches, and also to people with a diverse ability. I enjoy watching the developing confidence, skill and imagination of each individual who engages with the discipline.