More about me
I have many years experience working in the fields of art and literature, and I’m passionate about sharing knowledge and ideas. Here’s a little bit more about me.
I have a long association with the Atkinson Art Gallery in Southport, lecturing and contributing to the their archive since 2003. I currently teach a regular course on the History of Art, using and contextualizing works from their collection. Between 2008 and 2011 I worked as the gallery’s Painting of the Month Officer, and continue to give Object of the Month talks which highlight artists represented in the Atkinson collection.
In 2007 I was one of a cross section of women selected to choose work for the Atkinson’s Sefton Sisters exhibition, and in 2008 I was a judge for the Sefton Open Art Exhibition. In addition, I co-curated the Identity & Place Exhibition (2009), which showcased the work of artists Jagjit Chuhan and Richard Creed. I was also involved for many years with the Friends of the Atkinson Art Gallery, twice holding the position of Chairman.
I am currently working towards a future exhibition at the Gallery showcasing the work of Victorian artist John Maler Collier.
In addition to English Literature teaching, and my MA in Victorian Literature, I worked as a bookseller for a number of years at Broadhursts of Southport, a new, second hand and antiquarian bookshop. In addition to bookselling and new books buying, I was involved in organising and attending various book signings and literary events, with writers including Carol Ann Duffy, Andrew Motion and Roger McGough. In 2019 I was selected to be chief judge of the Southport Writer’s Circle Short Story Competition. I also enjoy writing poetry and have been developing a portfolio of works for a number of years.