Catherine Arnell

Background

About Catherine Arnell

I am an innovative Director and founder of Espression Arts CIC (social enterprise) with over 20 years of creative facilitation experience to diverse audiences. Espression Arts CIC started in 2017 and has grown from the Interactive Arts Cafe and Pottery Painting Studio in Canterbury which was set up in 2007 (Sadly closed due to COVID19 at the end of 2020). The organisation mission is to connect people through creativity (with a focus on pottery) and enable everyone in our community to access arts and crafts they wouldn't usually experience. I strongly believe that everyone has a right to be creative no matter what your creative ability, confidence or life circumstances! I designed and deliver all the Espression Arts workshops supported by volunteers from the communities. I am a Goldsmiths Fine Arts Graduate and have been working creatively in the community sector for almost 20 years. Lots of our work is focused on implementation of collaborative decorative projects in health, arts and wellbeing settings. More recent professional experience’s focus on older, vulnerable people many living with Dementia and mental health struggles. I’ve accomplished a wealth of skills and expertise in delivering a range of specialised creative workshops including pottery, decorative ceramics, mosaics, textiles and mixed media, also volunteer development and support. I am competent in all areas of delivery, operations, sales and marketing, business management and distribution. I’ve excellent acumen in strategic planning to drive profits for the project benefit of the more vulnerable in our community. I am known for strong leadership and communication with ability to build and maintain partner and client relationships leading to the development of wonderful creative experiences for others who would otherwise not be able to afford to have a go. I am a strong community minded person who strives for excellence. An advocate for collaborative arts and community services and development of individuals through volunteering and participation.