I’m Laura and I am a part-time Lecturer on the Extended Diploma in Creative Practice, specialising in the Fashion and Textiles Pathway.

Since completing my MFA at The Swedish School of Textiles in 2008, I have worked as a freelance creative practitioner alongside working in education. My creative practice focuses on illustrative print, drawing and collage inspired by human connection with the natural world. I combine abstract forms, textures, loose marks and vivid colours to create imaginative portrayals of birdlife and nature. I regularly sell my work at print fairs and deliver printmaking workshops as a member of Leeds Print Workshop, as well as facilitating other creative workshops independently.

I have a PGCE in Lifelong Learning, through which I carried out research into developing literacy skills in neurodivergent learners in the arts. I am neurodivergent myself, which has aided me in developing accessible and engaging resources in my teaching practice. I am also keen to challenge our creatives of the future to develop their voice as practitioners and critical thinkers. I have organised workshops and projects addressing issues around representation, sustainability and community to encourage discourse in our Level 3 students. Process is important to me, focusing strongly on drawing and primary research in my teaching to develop handcrafted textile techniques, both traditional and non-traditional.