Art as a Catalyst for Change: conferences, workshops, seminars and exhibitions.
Throughout my career as an artist, I have dedicated myself to creating spaces where art intersects with critical societal issues, particularly mental health. I have spearheaded and managed a series of impactful conferences, seminars, presentations, workshops and group exhibitions that explore the profound connections between art, science, and well-being. My efforts have been supported by successful fundraising initiatives, including securing grants from Arts Council England, with funding amounts reaching up to £50,000. These projects were delivered on time and within budget, demonstrating my commitment to professional excellence.
These events have taken place in esteemed venues such as Leeds Art Gallery, the University of Leeds, Norwich University, the Barbican, Manchester Art Gallery, and the Newcastle Phil and Lit Society, among others. Each gathering served as a platform for dialogue and reflection, engaging diverse audiences in discussions that matter. Collaborating with visionary artists, academics, and scientists has been at the heart of my work. I have had the privilege of working alongside esteemed professionals, including:
- Prof. Julian Leff (Social Psychiatrist)
- Prof. Joan Raphael-Leff (Psychoanalyst)
- Prof. Sander Gilman (Psychiatrist)
- Mary Midgely (Philosopher)
- Prof. Griselda Pollock (Art Historian)
- Dr. Julie Freeman (Artist)
- Dr. Hondartza Fraga (Artist)
- Dr. Chris Wood (Art Therapist)
- John Hyatt (Artist)
- Dr. Steph Dieckwoss (Art Historian)
- Dr. Liz Stirling (Artist)
- Dr. Steve Pool (Artist)
In addition to these collaborations, I have worked as part of organisations such as the Northern Arts and Science Network and the Yorkshire and Humber Visual Art Network. My experience as a freelance artist has allowed me to engage with a wide array of projects and initiatives, further enriching my understanding of the visual arts landscape. Together, we have developed initiatives like Hybrid, Diversity in Blue, Creative Minds, and Making a Living from Art. These projects not only showcase artistic talent but also foster a deeper understanding of the human experience through the lens of creativity.
Community Arts Workshops
With extensive experience in delivering and leading art workshops across diverse community settings, Paul’s practice embraces inclusivity, creativity, and meaningful engagement. His workshops reach a wide range of participants, including adults with complex needs, primary and secondary school students, and community groups from various backgrounds. Collaborating with key stakeholders like Leeds City Council, the NHS, mental health services, homeless and drug charities, and both arts and non-arts organisations, Paul brings accessible art experiences to settings that may have limited access to creative activities. This is as well as leading workshops in drawing, clay modelling and casting in my studio.
Workshop Offerings:
Paul’s workshops focus on sculpture, drawing, and painting, using materials such as cardboard, wire, and other accessible mediums. His sessions often take inspiration from major art collections, including those at Leeds Art Gallery and other notable institutions, allowing participants to engage with celebrated works and create their own art in response. Each workshop is designed to foster creativity, encourage self-expression, and build confidence, particularly for participants who benefit from a supportive, hands-on approach.
A Commitment to Socially Engaged Art:
With a commitment to working with community groups and organizations, Paul’s practice is centered on creating inclusive, enriching art experiences that inspire, educate, and bring people together. Through partnerships with public sector organizations and non-profit partners, he continues to make art accessible, impactful, and relevant to people of all ages and backgrounds.
The True Faith Project
Working with the Baltic Gallery in Newcastle in 2022 and basing the workshop on the costumes in the True Faith Video by New Order https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfI1S0PKJR8 choreographed by Phillippe Decoufle. Families were invited to create costumes using card board, tape, fabrics and found materials.
The Grimshaw Project
This project was a collaboration with myself, Leeds Art Gallery and Scarborough Art Gallery. I worked within their community engagement remits with schools and youth groups. We identified location sites portrayed by Victorian Leeds born painter Atkinson Grimshaw and photographed them today. Paul then manipulated the image on photoshop and projected the outline on to a wall and panels which were then completed by participants.
Yorkshire Sculpture Triangle community engagement project.
2017
A community engagement project for the Yorkshire Sculpture Triangle delivering a series of workshops, exhibitions and discussions with community groups visiting the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, The Hepworth and the Henry Moore Institute.
Partners included AXIS, Leeds Beckett University student volunteers and the Workers Education Association.
Film link about the project.
Portraits of Emotions
A series of paintings and drawings of people expressing emotions of joy, anger and sadness.
Paul delivered a series of portrait drawing workshops within Leeds primary and secondary schools, including volunteer Fine Art Student coordination.
Interviews with the portrait participants were conducted by Dr. Paula Boston.
There was a final exhibition and talk held at The Tetley in 2015. The work was also shown in University of Leeds School of Medicine, ESA Union 105 and Warren Street Pop up space and Munroe House Gallery.
The work is permanently on display in Leeds City Council buildings.
For info about the project.
Film link about the project.
Film link about the workshop delivered alongside the show.
Rampton Hospital
From January to July 2002, I had the unique opportunity to devise and deliver a residency at Rampton Hospital, collaborating closely with the education department. During this time, I engaged with patients through a series of tailored educational initiatives, ensuring that they were actively involved in their own learning and development. This residency was significant not only for the patients but also for the staff, as it included comprehensive training sessions designed to enhance the therapeutic environment within the hospital.
The culmination of this residency was marked by a book exhibition and conference, showcasing the creative outputs and insights gained throughout the program. This event served as a platform for sharing experiences, fostering dialogue, and highlighting the transformative power of art in mental health care. It was a profound experience that reinforced the importance of collaboration and creativity in supporting the well-being of individuals in secure settings.