Kath grew up on the Norfolk/Suffolk border, studied art in Devon and Sheffield and returned to the countryside of the Waveney Valley in 2005. In 2014 Kath joined a local exhibiting art co-operative HWAT, which prompted a major garden landscaping project to incorporate a small garden studio.

 

Since then work has developed along the themes of landscape and the human form. Having a convenient studio has given a freedom to experiment with different materials, sizes and techniques. But, the best thing about the studio is its garden location. Working outside gives a sense of peace and connection to the beauty of the natural world which is so often a subject for the work.

The work varies greatly in size from tiny sketch book drawings and paintings to large canvases. Some pieces are simple line drawings on paper or canvas, while other pieces are started with fragments of newspapers or maps and created over many months. The finished painting shows the history of its making as the different layers, colours and marks interact.

Movement and the tactile qualities of art and found materials usually form the basis of the more abstract pieces. Kath also enjoys working on more representative landscapes. There are always several paintings and drawings in progress at any one time. There is an almost tangible conversation between the different pieces of work. The paintings seem to dance between the fluidity of expressive lines and atmospheric colours, and the solidity of more representational imagery.

Norwich School of Art 1984 – 1985 Foundation Certificate
Dartington College of Arts 1985 – 1987 Art and Design in the Social Contexts
Sheffield City Polytechnic 1988 – 1990 Fine Art Painting BA Hons
Sheffield Hallam University 1994 – 1995 PGCE Lower Primary Teaching
Sheffield University 1995 – 2000 Post Graduate Diploma Art Psychotherapy
Leeds Metropolitan University 2011 – 2012 MA Art Psychotherapy Research

Art Therapy
Art and art making have many therapeutic qualities for the artist and observer. Art Psychotherapists use art making in a confidential space to build trusting relationships with clients. As the relationship becomes established art and play materials are used to explore feelings. Art Psychotherapy is a collaborative process between therapist and client.

Art Psychotherapists in the UK are registered with the British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT) and regulated by the Health Care Professions Council (HCPC). Art Psychotherapists work in many contexts with different client groups. Kath specialises in work with children.