Meet Jen, the new Co-design Project Manager for The Workshop in King’s Lynn, overseeing three community projects: Creative Wellbeing with the Purfleet Centre supporting local homelessness, ‘Sing4Fun’ for visually impaired participants with Vision Norfolk, and the King’s Lynn Youth Project with students from King’s Lynn Academy.
With many years of experience working within the arts and culture sector, and a background as an Art & Design teacher, Jen is passionate about making the arts accessible, especially in areas of deprivation. “The Garage Trust’s values align closely with my belief in inclusivity and creative expression for all, and the projects are both diverse and impactful.”
“Although I grew up in Norfolk, King’s Lynn was unfamiliar to me. Since starting this role, I’ve been discovering the town’s character, history, and strong sense of community pride. I’m excited to build deeper connections with the town and its residents.”
In addition to arts project management, Jen is a visual artist working in sculpture, painting, and socially engaged practice, creating work that responds to people’s stories and my own experiences. Jen also works as an artist educator in schools, supporting arts provision and teacher development. She is in the early stages of developing her own Community Interest Company, Arting Around CIC, which supports children and young people who are challenged with mainstream learning by facilitating philosophical conversations and providing an opportunity to respond to ideas through visual art.
We asked Jen what she is most looking forward to in her new role, she says “I’m excited to work closely with participants, witnessing their growth and the positive impact of the projects. The strong bonds within the groups are already clear and inspiring. I look forward to hearing about the participants lived experiences and how taking part in their project will support their wellbeing.”
“After these projects finish, I hope these projects can continue and grow, supported by those who see their real impact. Leaving a lasting legacy of creative community work in King’s Lynn is my biggest goal.”
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