At West Dean College, we know that creative growth doesn’t happen in isolation and sometimes, financial support makes all the difference. One of our students, Charlie, recently shared how funding has helped them access a short course that is transforming both their creative practice and the communities she works with.
“Financial support for training makes a huge difference in being able to access training and development to further my creative practice and work opportunities." she said.
Working part-time as a community worker and part-time as a freelancer, Charlie balances work, family life, and creative ambitions. Short courses are an investment of both time and money, but with support in place, they become accessible pathways to skills development, inspiration, and professional growth.
Since 2020, Charlie has been exploring basketry and weaving, using natural materials to create soft sculptures and place-based installations. They are particularly drawn to UK heritage techniques, such as Kishies and Caishes from the Orkney and Shetland Islands.
“I want to deepen my basketry skills and knowledge, share these skills with others, and use basketry to create a community that connects with people's lives and supports wellbeing.”
Charlie’s work extends well beyond her own creative practice. As a community worker and socially engaged artist, she facilitates nature-connection and creative workshops for adults and families across South Yorkshire. Charlie also weaves wherever she can, including during train journeys, making in public spaces as a way to share her skills, spark curiosity, and connect with people. Conversations often unfold naturally, with fellow travellers sharing stories of baskets made by parents, grandparents, and communities past, turning everyday journeys into moments of shared heritage and exchange.
“Increasingly, my workshops focus on basketry techniques, using natural materials, weaving, and making baskets. Each time I teach, I see how it brings people together, supports wellbeing, and connects them to cultural heritage.”
Finding uninterrupted creative time can be challenging, particularly with a young child and no dedicated studio space. Short courses offer the rare opportunity to spend four full days immersed in making time that allowed Charlie to deepen their practice, nurture their wellbeing, and return to their teaching and community work with renewed inspiration.
“The act of making with my hands supports my mental health during challenging times,” Charlie reflected.
Financial support is not just about enabling a course it’s about unlocking growth, creativity, and lasting impact. Stories like Charlie’s remind us why access to learning matters.
