Artist statement by Rita Sheppard

Portrait of Rita SheppardI am open to working in a variety of mediums, and artistic aspects, from fine art oil painting to installations and performance pieces.

I have an interest in working with clay and natural materials (I am especially interested in materials found locally).

I have a variety of ideas using the green areas of the site; weaving, hanging and sculptural elements, especially amongst the trees.

I am very approachable and happy to try new things and materials. I am happy to be seen as part of a team.

Much of my previous work is based on images of the goddess. I am interested in images of women, especially saints and women of mythology. Many of the goddess images incorporate themes and animals, like snakes, birds and dragons.

I am reasonably flexible and would be able to work on site 2-3 days a week. I would also be able to spend time with the off-site artist.

I have basic computer skills and a general interest in photography.

I envisage the work covering the time of the exhibition, with preliminary and evaluation time included. But I am flexible on this.

Relevant skills and experience:

My art degree was in ceramics and painting, with various sculptural elements.

I have worked alongside an artist in school work, making giant fruits from withies. This was through the Artists Into Schools organisation.

I have had a variety of experiences as an Art House technician, and have worked alongside various artists, working in clay and plaster.

I hold a 730 certificate for teaching adults and an NNEB certificate in childcare. I have had many opportunities in working with a wide section of the community, from babies to the elderly.

I have recently finished a short course in Community Art, which taught a variety of communication aspects, cumulating in an interactive performance at a primary school.

I have just finished a six months residency at Calderdale College ceramic department, producing a large ceramic goddess.

My present work is as a part-time carer for a disabled person.

Go to Ju Gosling's artist's statement

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