On the 13th December we held a Development Day for our volunteers, staff and tutors.
Lauren Currie started the day by sharing her journey from art school, to curator, co-director of The Duchy and Project Ability's Exhibition Coordinator.
Lauren was followed by film maker Kate Burton. Kate shared her progression from art school to becoming interested in film to working as a writer and independant film director and of her work being screened at International Festivals, her interest in documentary film and her work at Project Ability where she delivers film classes for young people.
Kate was followed by Tracy Gorman who talked about the many different roles she has had at Project Ability and her current position of volunteer coordinator. Tracy also works as a tutor and most recently worked with Kate and artists Meredith Crone and Zeynap Arman developing the project Lennox Castle Stories.
After an exilarating morning it was time for soup and a sandwich and a chance to network.
After lunch, Lisa Clark – took us through the mechanics of workshop development and sound workshop management. Lisa is the Create programme manager.
Lisa was followed by artist Meredith Crone. Meredith has a vast experience of supporting people to engage with art and in particular talked about working with people on the autistic spectrum.
John Fitzpatrick followed Meredith. John has worked with Project Ability for many years and was the art tutor for Connect. He is currently supporting people on the reConnect programme and our Art Matters group. John shared his experience of working with people in recovery from mental ill health.
And finally, John was followed by artist Simon McAuley. Simon is an artist and mental health service user. Simon spoke about his practice since graduating from art school and the progression of his work from photography, through drawing to today, where he is discovering painting.
It was an extremely enjoyable day – reflective, thought provoking and inspiring.
Thank you to the artists who shared their practice and thank you to our audience.
