My journey

Since 2010 I have offered freelance ‘Creative Styling’ services as a fashion designer/maker, based on my research which includes psychological well-being.  I am the Director of ‘Creative Style’, which encompasses fashion styling, colour advice and design coaching.  My wider role involves directing the EVAN network and managing a variety of arts events/shows/shoots. 

Previously I was the Course leader of undergrad and postgrad  Fashion and Contemporary Applied Arts courses and validated fashion/textile courses from Shetland to Singapore. After working in France and the US, teaching and researching I returned to my home in the Cumbrian Lake District a scenic World Heritage Site in the North of England. This fits with my need for reflective creative moments and my values of renovation and renewal.   I love re-working and customising clothing and materials that would be otherwise wasted. Reuse helps to reduce the waste clothing mountain and preserves the environment I love.

Making is also a means of seeking calm in a  stressful world. I am fuelled by my passion for the value of experiential learning within the making process. This was the subject of my PhD, so I consider myself to be forever learning and sharing.  My coaching has resulted in students achieving well-earned awards for many years. I have uncovered a key to individual creativity through the meditative reflective process.  I believe that everyone can find their own peaceful creative flow in my workshops. This meditative approach is played out through all of my practice; stitching, 3D textiles, drawing, tango and creative coaching.

 Working freelance in such a broad area means it is good to talk with like-minded spirits. Always interested in new challenges so feel free to connect!