Artist
As a practitioner of art, textiles and needlework, Bev enjoys working in a multidisciplinary approach. This involves the conceptualisation of ideas for a project, with the inspirating often coming from everyday conversation, nature and exhibitions. The concept is sketched out and researched. The research is wide-ranging and crosses into the depths of art history, feminist theories, psychosocial studies and many other disciplines.
Theorist
As the research progresses academic theory is combined with materials and ideas from literature, visits to galleries, museums and libraries. Bev is interested in the macro, micro and the spaces in-between. Being a neurodiverse practitioner, the bigger picture is of paramount importance to understand the story she is creating. Visual imagery, academic theory and poetry are all part of exploring the creative threads of her work.
Poet
By visualising concepts and creating a multimedia tapestry, a poem is conceptualised to accompany the academic writing before the article, book chapter or conference paper is completed.
Practitioner
For example, whilst creating the poster presentation for the dyslexia conference 2024, Bev designed a conversation matrix to support the neurodiverse student cohort she teaches. This template can be used to understand the challenges and barriers students face. Thus, by having a conversation with a mentor, or study skills tutor, some of the anxiety can be alleviated. The ideas for the matrix were summarised into the poem and tapestry: The Fertile (Un)conscious, embroidery with silks, beads and pomegranate juice 17.78 x 17.78 cm, private collection.
