I was recently invited to contribute to an ITV Meridian feature about encouraging and supporting young people from deprived backgrounds to engage with the arts.
It was fascinating for me to reflect on my childhood experiences. At times I have felt uncomfortable about my upbringing. I have embraced the past, seen things positively, and accepted that everything makes me who I am despite the various adversities.
I write this with some ideas and from my observations. The interview posed three questions which I would like to explore.
1. When did you decide to pursue a career in art, and what did you do to make it happen?
I come from a creative background, in practically one of making, be it making furniture and clothes, designing or cooking. I decided at 15 that a creative path was for me. I directed that towards the arts. I wanted to take my creativity seriously, so I embarked on a foundation art course, my BA degree, and then an MA in Arts Criticism.
2. What fears did you have about whether or not you could actually make a career that pays the bills, doing art?
As a determined person, I was steadfast once I had decided on my career path. It wasn't my fears; it was the fear of others–teachers, lecturers and parents. I had to analyse where their advice was coming from, was it from their known experiences, or were they being over-protective? Why did they feel the need to protect? The messages given were far from encouraging or supportive.
There are so many ways to earn a living today, and our focus should be on developing entrepreneurs, creative thinkers, inventors and problem solvers.
All that I have achieved has come from being an artist, and I have used my skills to diversify in many directions. I certainly apply my creative thinking to my business.
3. What advice do you have for young people, especially in less privileged areas, who feel they cannot pursue a career in art?
Dedication to the arts takes passion and commitment.
Turn your disadvantage into your advantage.
Value your creativity, and then others will too.
Getting into your creative space will be challenging at times.
Protect your creativity and time.
Don't let other people take advantage of your talents.
Don't mistake ego for confidence.
Know that there will be sacrifices.
Be comfortable in your own company.
Always look for ways to advance.
Make rejection your best friend.
I was fortunate to work with early years children for a creative catalyst project in Birmingham. The first thing I noticed was that at the age of 4, children were already categorised as creative or non-creative.
I was asked to work with the already identified creative group. I decided to work with all 30 children and had individual sessions with each of them. I was blown away by the abilities of these young children. The standard produced over a limited period was outstanding.
We witnessed children opening up and making connections that had never been revealed until this point. I have experienced first-hand the power of working with children's creativity and the positive advancements this can give them in the future.
Kellie and Fred