The Joyful Art Group

My StoryArt has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. My journey began with a love of textiles and creative design, which led me to study Art and Textiles before qualifying as a teacher. Over the years, I have been fortunate enough to teach in both the UK and Spain, working with students of all ages and abilities. Every step of my career has reinforced one thing – creativity has the power to build confidence, improve wellbeing and bring people together.One of the biggest turning points in my career came when I realised that art wasn’t just about producing beautiful work; it was about giving people the confidence to express themselves. I’ve seen first-hand how creativity can reduce anxiety, improve self-esteem and help people discover talents they never knew they had. That is what inspired me to create joyful, welcoming art experiences where everyone feels they belong, regardless of their artistic ability.I absolutely love teaching because I love seeing people surprise themselves. Watching someone who believes they “can’t draw” create something they’re genuinely proud of is one of the most rewarding parts of my job. My aim is always to make people feel relaxed, encouraged and inspired. I believe there is no such thing as being “bad at art”—only people who haven’t yet been given the right support and encouragement.Many people don’t realise that I have spent much of my teaching career working with students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Supporting young people to achieve qualifications they never thought possible has been one of the greatest privileges of my career. It has taught me patience, creativity and how to adapt my teaching so that everyone can experience success. Those same skills now shape the welcoming, inclusive atmosphere I create in every workshop.I have over 20 years of teaching experience and currently work as an Art Teacher and Art Coordinator. I introduced and developed the GCSE Art curriculum at my current school, achieving a 100% pass rate for two consecutive years with SEND students. Alongside teaching, I have organised school art exhibitions, created whole-school art initiatives and led lunchtime art clubs, helping hundreds of students discover the joy of creativity.My qualifications include an HND in Art and Textiles, and I am a qualified teacher with extensive experience delivering creative education in schools. Throughout my career I have taught in both mainstream and specialist settings, including a British international school in Spain and a specialist SEND school in the UK.Today, through Joyful Art Group, my goal is to share that same passion with adults looking for a creative escape. Whether you’ve never picked up a paintbrush before or you’re returning to art after many years, my workshops are designed to help you relax, learn new skills and enjoy the simple pleasure of creating something with your own hands.I truly believe that everyone is creative—it just takes the right environment and a little encouragement to let it shine.