Joanne O'Connor

What clients do you typically work with?

I worked with school children of all ages, but specialised in 11-18years. I currently work as a Community Artist where I work with young offenders with complex needs, adults with mental health needs and drug and alcohol issues. I work in hospital wards, prisons and even outside in a field in order to reach people who will benefit from working creatively. I’ve been producing my own artwork for as long as I can remember, I exhibit and sell some work. I’ve recently been awarded a grant from Doncaster Council to create a new piece of artwork that will be displayed in Doncaster in September.

Do you have any qualifications/certificates that are desirable to a client?

DBS, First Aid and level 3 safeguard training.

What's your favourite thing about what you do?

I love bringing people together and helping them to build connections with each other. I have seen first-hand how creating art of any kind can really improve how a person feels about themselves and it’s even more beneficial when they meet other like minded people! I just love thinking about and designing projects for a variety of people of all ages. Some projects last just an hour or two and others can be worked on for a whole day or days - sometimes resulting in an installation or exhibition (if appropriate). Aside from working with others, I spend any spare time I have working on my own artwork and developing my own practice.