Louise's Art Workshops

My name is Louise Grassby and I studied a B.A. Hons in Art, Art History and Printmaking at the University of Derby and then later majored in Art and Drama whilst pursuing a B. Ed at Bradford University. After graduating with a 1st class degree, I worked as an art teacher in a middle school in West Yorkshire and then in primary schools for another 25 years as a teacher and Deputy Head, with expertise in major school improvement .

I now work as a Consultant in Primary Schools to support the development of the Creative Curriculum and Art and Design. This includes working with leaders and delivering bespoke CPD to staff, including creative art sessions to support their health and well-being. I also do Artist in Residence work creating carefully tailored programmes to meet the needs of the learners. I can offer events to increase parental engagement.

In school holidays and at weekends I run art workshops for all ages including silk painting, drawing and painting, children and family art/craft events across West Yorkshire in museums and other venues. I work as a freelance artist doing private commissions for individuals and dance and theatre organisations, including work at festivals. In addition, I collaborate with schools, museums and creative organisations on artistic projects.

Several years a ago I gained a Foundation Degree in Art Therapy at Sheffield Hallam and worked in the Art Studio with patients and their familes at Wheatfields Hospice, Leeds. I have always believed in the therapeutic benefits of art and being creative. In my spare time drawing, painting and creating keep me grounded and happy. When funding is available I run Arts for Health and Well-being classes. In my own practice I love to use different types of media including pencils, charcoal, pastels, acrylic paints, watercolours and mixed media.