Artist Statement
Covering all available surfaces my work explores colour through pattern, form and space; in the medium of textiles. My recent work consists of a collection of bean bags, incorporating screen printed patterns and hand sewn embelllishmetns. Japanese artist yayoi Kusama has had the most profound influence on my work, as I enjoy her use of repetitive pattern and selective colour palettes.
Interested in the effects that colour has on mood, I work in a range of harmonious red, orange and yellow, as these colours are known to be stimulating and uplifting on the mind. I focus on the simple geometric shape of the circle, generating ideas to transfer my interest in colour through pattern. Using CAD I develop my designs by altering scale and thickness of line, ordered and random repeat- until I'm satisfied with the final outcome.
An unconscious need for repetition, I choose to work in multiples, varying the bean bag shapes to add diversity and a playful quality to the work. I'm interested in engaging the viewer and transforming a space where the viewer becomes a participator in the work. The playful quality of my bean bags enables the viewer to interact with the space, arranging the space to address their own needs.
The bean bags collectively create an atmospheric space, wherein both children and adults are encouraged to take time out, relax and have fun!
Shows and Exhibitions
Graduate Exhibition - University of Ulster - June 09
Christmas Craft Fair- University of ulster - 2008
Local Newry SELB staff exhibition coming up in due course! Summer 2011
Commissions
Private Interior commission for Family home in Armagh - Complimentary wall art and bean bags for family sitting room.- June 2009
Commissions available on request.
Wall mural - Graffiti style for young boys bedroom - August 2010
Qualifications
BA Hons Art and Design, with Specialism in Textile Art.
CCEA 1st Diploma in floristry
Skills Profile
-Have Child protection clearance
-Knowledge of CAD
-Obtained ECDL computers award
-Proefficient in Photoshop and illustrator
-Experience with microsoft programmes inc, powerpoint
-Excellent Visual merchandising skills
-Excellent time management
-Self motivated and push myself to achieve and maintain high standards of work
Employment Record
October 2010 - Present - Arts Facilitator - Orana surestart Newry
Providing recreational art workshops for adults, to encourage self development and relaxation. Workshops include; Wire and Bead jewellery, Lino printing, Creative floristry workshops, Weaving, Sculpture ..... and more! I oversee all elements of the workshops inc, cost plans, purchasing materials and delivering the workshops single handedly.
Jan 2010- Present - Art technician - St. Josephs Boys High School, Newry
Assisting in the preparation of teaching and learning young pupils between the age of 11 and 16. Demonstrating new skills to GCSE students, including ; textiles, ceramics, painting techniques, sculpture. Re- ordering and maintaining equipment.
2008- 2010- Visual Merchandiser and Supervisor- Faith Shoes, Newry
My role as visual merchandiser involves creating appealing window displays and additional displays throughout the store. As Faith is a chain retailer, I don’t have complete autonomy over the layout of the store, but follow the company’s model store guidelines to ensure the brand and season trends are communicated consistently to the public. Using my trained eye for design I create displays that are appealing to the customer, endeavouring to maximise sales and to encourage link selling. Aware of the key term in retail ‘eye level- buy level’ , the stores best selling stock and new lines are promoted mid shelf, always endeavouring to beat target.
2007- present - Kitchen Design Planner (4hrs Flexi time) Loughbrook Kitchen Centre, Camlough.
As part-time planner, I work with the client and their plans to meet their design requirements. I use computer aided software to create a professional finish and pass on the design to the owner to cost and complete the sale.
2007- 2008, Communtiy Art Workshops, Aine McCauley in conjucntion with ROSA.
This role involved interacting with children aged between 7-13yrs, assisting the tutor in demonstrating various skills and techniques, Including; drawing skills, mosaic, painting, collage and mural work, introducing them to new materials expanding their creative vocabulary.
Payment Details
Contact Details
21, Carrick Vista
Bessbrook
Newry
Co. Down
Ireland
07708776796
Millar-j5@email.ulster.ac.uk