ABOUT ME
April 2024
University of Atypical
D/Deaf and Disabled Artist Support fund (DDASF)
I was selected as one of 20 successful applicants to receive the DDASF 2023/24 award.
March 2021
University of Atypical
D/Deaf and Disabled Artist Support fund (DDASF)
One of 44 artists in Northern Ireland to receive this award for a commission to raise awareness of hidden disabilities.
July 2019 - Current
Owner Kiln It NI
Developing a brand and a clientele that support it.
2005-2024
Animart Display - Design Consultant
Newtownards, Comber, Co. Down and Frankfurt, Germany.
Installation of Seasonal decorations in Commercial properties. My role is to dress Trees and Garlands, assemble large aerial displays such as chandeliers and light displays. I would also travel to Frankfurt to meet with suppliers to discuss new products and trends for the upcoming year as well as give feedback on performance of previous years installation of products. I would meet with clients and propose new ideas and schemes by creating photoshopped simulations of suggested improvements with new or refurbished products.
March 2017
The Model Primary School Newtownards
Running Ceramic and Craft workshops for the children, which would include teaching the children about the materials and how they are used, as well as instructing them how to replicate various craft projects step by step
2018 - Present
Self Run Craft Parties - Artist
I have Specialised my study in ceramics and have had to learn various techniques, such as coiling, slabbing and pinching which are all traditional hand building techniques, I also know basic throwing and pottery techniques however my strength is in handbuilding.
2016 - Present
Lorien Trust Setup Crew - Volunteer
Locko Park, Spondon, Derbyshire, England
I worked as part of a team during the set up of a Lorien Trust LARP event where we worked closely with team members to put up marquee tents, work huts, field kitchens and other facilities safely and efficiently to make sure they were done on time. Again during these builds working off a job checklist to fill in odd jobs either individually or as part of a small team to ensure they were all completed to a high and safe standard. The time constraints on these set up builds mean I was always motivated to get my current job done to move onto the next on time and to allow the next team to complete their allocated task after me in a clean and tidy space.
2015 (summer)
Project 24 - Summer Intern
Bangor, Co. Down, Northern Ireland
Steph Hanlon a Painter at Project 24 gave me a summer internship, I assisted in working in the Pod and kept it tidy as well as talking to drop in customers and passers by interested in work for sale. Miss Hanlon also let me Sell some of my own pieces. I Had to motivate myself when I was in the pod on my own and carry myself in a professional manner as I wasn't just representing myself but someone else.
May 2015 - June 2015
Ards Art Centre Exhibition - Artist
Newtownards, Co. Down, Northern Ireland
A Group Exhibition showcasing our final work as Part of our foundation, we had to work in a professional manner. I had to negotiate the allocation of space in a diplomatic manner so that everyone would be happy and showcased in the most appropriate manner.
November 2014 - December 2014
Christmas Craft Fayres - Artist
Newtownards Town Hall and SERC Bangor, Co. Down, Northern Ireland
I designed and created a range of christmas decorations to sell. I had to ensure I covered my own costs and quantities and also transporting goods to fayres and setting up in a timely manner.
Education
University of Ulster, Belfast Campus
Sept 2015 - June 2019BA Hons in Ceramics, Silversmithing and Jewellery (Specialised in Ceramics)- Second class honours upper division ​(2.1)
South Eastern Regional College
Sept 2010 - June 2011
NOCN in Floral Art - Pass
Sept 2014-2015
BTEC Foundation Diploma in Art and Design - Pass
North Down and Ards Institute
Sept 2005 - June 2007
BTEC National Award - Performing Arts and Dance - Merit
Strangford Integrated College
Sept 2000 -June 2007
GCSE & A Level​