Helen is an Illustrator from the small Cathedral city of Lichfield, now based in Cardiff.
Her illustrative practice primarily explores visual journalism, often with narratorial, sociological and psychological agendas. Mediums of choice include pen, ink and gouache paint. Helen is heavily inspired by experience and location, creating a sense of spontaneity and fluidity, using those marks that are often considered 'mistakes'. Helen is also interested in the utility of design, with self taught expertise in the Adobe suite.
Ultimately Helen has had a passion for creativity and communication from a young age. She chose to study both Graphic Design and Art and Design at GCSE, and furthermore completed an Art and Design A level. Helen was awarded an A* for her portfolio of work, and allocated a place to study at Cardiff School of Art and Design. After her Foundation Diploma she elected to continue her creative education, and received an unconditional offer from the University. Helen graduated with a Ba(HONS) Illustration from Cardiff Metropolitan University.
Helen is also an experienced worker in creativity and support; with over 5 years of providing thorough, skillful and imaginative solutions to a client’s needs. Her first role in support was that of an arts, crafts and social group volunteer at Cardiff Mind, she is currently a Scheme Support Officer in supported accommodation for ex offenders. Helen's place within a close knit team organically became that of an Engagement Officer; coordinating, networking and running activities across the schemes. Helen is interested in the relationship between health and art, and the ways in which creativity can improve our lives and communities, both the immediate and global.
Education
2019
Certitec
Photoshop Advanced
2017
Nottingham Trent University
Graphic Design Short Course
2014 - 2015
Cardiff Metropolitan University
INC. Space creative residency
2011 - 2014
Cardiff School of Art and Design
Ba(HONS) Illustration
2010 - 2011
Cardiff School of Art and Design
Foundation Diploma Art and Design
2008 - 2010
King Edwards VI School
Mathematics, English Language, Art and Design
Exhibitions
Dec 2018
A Better Life
Pierhead Building, Cardiff Bay
July 2018
NHS70
HeARTh Gallery, Llandough Hospital
Nov 2017 -
Jan 2018
Winter Open Exhibition
HeARTh Gallery, Llandough Hospital
May 2017
Bloom: Wellbeing and Creativity in Age
HeARTh Gallery, Llandough Hospital
May 2020
Oasis Cardiff charity auction
Online
May 2017
Gwanwyn Festival installation
HeARTh Gallery, Llandough Hospital
Nov 2016 -
Jan 2017
Just Breathe
Washington Buildings, Penarth
Nov 2016 -
Jan 2017
Affordable Art: Winter Exhibition
HeARTh Gallery, Llandough Hospital
Sept 2016
Inc @ M.A.D.E
M.A.D.E Gallery, Cardiff
June -
July 2016
Summer Exhibition
HeARTh Gallery, Llandough Hospital
Jan -
Mar 2016
Drawing our Stories: Art, Medicine and Wellbeing
HeARTh Gallery, Llandough Hospital, Cardiff
Mar 2016 -
Present
Hafan y Coed: An Illustrated Journey
Hafan y Coed in house gallery, Penarth.
Jan -
Feb 2016
Creative Exchange
High Street Arcade, Cardiff
Sept 2015
SHOW
Studio 4, Cardiff Metropolitan University
Aug 2014
Beyond the Border installation
St Donats Welcome Center, Llantwit Major
June 2014
Illustration, class of 2014
Howard Gardens, Cardiff
Feb 2014
Expectations and Exploitations
St Mary’s Old Church, Stoke Newington, London