Curator

After studying fine art at St Martins and Chelsea, I gradually realised that I was far better skilled at organising art exhibitions and events than actually producing my own art work and on a bit of an impulse, I applied for the MA Curating course at Goldsmiths.

I was fortunate to be given great opportunities during a manic year of MA study, co-curating shows for the South London Gallery and the British Council. I adapted easily to the practical challenges of curating and enjoyed working with other artists. There are always difficulties though, I get tongue tied with ‘high art’ theory and I do not have a particular gift for art dealing, so I finished the year a little bit stuck as to how I was going to earn a living.

I now work as a freelance curator and administrator, taking part-time or temporary contracts at a range of organisations – from architectural charities to textile workshops to East End galleries – helping to run exhibitions, art programmes, lectures and events. My working week is full of variety and I am always working on at least two jobs at a time (often more), although I also have to accept the insecurity and financial pressure that results from irregular work and pay. I constantly have to apply for new contracts and while one week I may have too much work and be exhausted, another week there will be no work available and I really have my trust in God’s provision tested.

There is opportunity within the arts to meet a remarkable number of unique people, anyone who has the motivation and commitment to find a way of continuing their practice really inspires me and they are a huge number of artists to observe and learn from. My biggest challenge is to practice in the arts as Jesus would have me do, from fairness and honesty regarding money (and taxes!) to the support and development of individuals rather than fashionable trends. Quite honestly I believe that this is the measure of what God has called me to do; the art world simply needs Christians – lots of them.

I believe that God (infinitely creative in ways beyond human perception) can use visual and conceptual arts language to communicate across social, cultural and religious boundaries - in ways that constantly surprise me. If I could offer any advice it would be to meet as many Christians as you possible can who are working in any sector of the arts, find out what they are doing and how you can work together. Get involved with your CU or another prayer group, they will provide invaluable support, but don’t immerse yourself in Christian activities at the risk of failing to get to know other people on your course and in your community.

AND if you are planning to continue to live and work in the area in which you study – get involved straight away in a local church where there is the potential for you to explore and use your artistic skills – leaving University after three or more years can be a disorientating experience and you will really need the support of a local church and the friends that you make there!