About me:

​At the turn of the century, I found myself working as the Creative Arts tutor in a women’s prison – a high-security establishment with a young offenders' unit attached. It was not the easiest place to be, but it taught me a great deal – especially about the power of creativity.

I quickly noticed how the women opened up once their hands were busy. Stitching, drawing, making things – it was as if their stories slipped out more freely when their fingers were occupied. That experience made me think about becoming an art therapist… but I did not have a degree. So, in my forties, I quit my job and went off to art school.

As time passed, I realised that formal art therapy was not quite the right path for me – it felt a little too clinical, too boundaried. What I really wanted was to work alongside people in a softer way… encouraging them to rediscover their creative spark – not to analyse, but to awaken.

So I quietly created my own title: therapeutic art facilitator. It was not a job, exactly – more of a calling. Something I could offer freely, with love – giving people permission to play, to experiment, to create without judgement.

I have always believed that creativity matters. It nurtures confidence, builds connection, and helps us feel more human.

Time and again I have witnessed how being creative supports mental health and emotional well-being. It lifts us. Grounds us. Brings joy.

And yet, so many people say to me, “But I am not creative…”
Or “I do not know where to start.”

That is where I come in. I am not here to teach you how to paint or draw – because I do not do those things either!

I am a maker. I make art – and I help other people make art too.
Slowly, gently, with encouragement and delight.

Over the years, I have often been told:
"Your work is so inspirational."
"That has given me an idea!"

And that – well, that is exactly what I hope for.
That is my passion. My purpose. My ikigai.

Selected Highlights: Creative & Community Arts Practice (2005–2025)

• Slow Stitched Books – Ellen’s Legacy (2020–ongoing): Founder and project leader of an international slow stitch community, now in its fifth year.
  
  

• Slow Stitch School (2024–ongoing): Launch of a dedicated platform offering creative inspiration and connection through slow stitching.
  
  

• Year-Long Stitch Book Projects (2020–2026): Designed and led four international themed book projects inspired by Japanese aesthetics, circularity, and storytelling.
  
  

• Dangerous Pockets Project (2018–ongoing): Creator of a powerful global collaboration exploring silence, isolation, and shared stories – exhibited across the UK and featured in No Serial Number magazine.
  
  

• Award Winner: Eco Crafters and Entrepreneurs Award (No Serial Number magazine, 2018). John Dann award for Innovation in Ceramics.
  
  

• Exhibitor & Curator: Participated in and curated numerous exhibitions and installations including One Green Bottle, The Folk Healer and The Bundle of Rags, The Heirloom Box, Caravan of Curiosity, and many more.
  
  

• International Collaborations: Duo exhibition ‘One World’ with International artist Jane Ingram Allan. Contributed to the Bookmarks series (2005–2017) and exhibited work in Taiwan, Italy, the USA and across the UK.
  
  

• Community Arts Leader: Over 20 years facilitating therapeutic, inclusive art workshops and collaborative projects – often supporting women, mental health, and wellbeing.
  
  

• Academic Qualifications: MA with Distinction in Art, Design and the Book; Post Grad in Contemporary Book Binding, BA (Hons) in 3D Design (Ceramics); multiple certificates in art facilitation and therapeutic approaches.
  
  

• Media & Recognition: Featured on ITV Anglia News and in national publications. Recipient of the London 2012 Inspire Mark for adult creative workshop initiatives.