Having worked in adult substance misuse services and youth services for many years Jo has a person-centred approach to her workshops and has devised a way of working in smaller group settings which allows vulnerable adults and young people to feel free to explore their creativity in a low pressure, non-judgemental and safe environment. She has extensive experience of running workshops in therapeutic environments and community projects including;
Touring Richard Long, Tate Artist Rooms
Project themes can be consistent with Jo’s community or education projects themes (see details of these on this website under appropriate headings) but can also be tailored to the needs of the group. For example; groups may want to explore a particular theme, need to be smaller or run as shorter sessions so that participants have time to build trust and feel more comfortable to engage. For some groups initial sessions would start in familiar indoor surroundings and lead on to working in the natural environment.
Jo is a strong believer in the benefit that being out in a natural environment has on an individual’s mental health, creativity, confidence and learning.
Ysmart young persons substance misuse service
She also believes that running multi-generational and cross-cultural projects benefits all involved as it helps participants to bridge the gap between fragmented elements of the community and bring an understanding of other people’s life choices.
Jo’s work promotes art as a powerful tool in helping people to express themselves, as a catalyst for opening dialogue and as an aid through periods of change as individuals or in a community.
Having spent the last two years researching and developing art processes that can aid us through life-transitions; Jo has a particular interest in holding space for those who are experiencing mental health difficulties linked to mid-life transitions and transitions into early adolescence. She currently runs creative retreats specifically designed for women see ‘High Noon’ for further details.