Welcome to ArtWell

I am a visual artist, calligrapher and graphic designer who also: writes articles, works as an artist in healthcare settings, and designs and offers creativity trainings for professionals in healthcare and other fields.

This year my focus is gradually changing. Because of the bad press art is getting here in Holland, and the proposed devastating budget cuts in the performing arts, I've been focused more on raising consciousness around these issues than making art per se. Although the solitary hours spent in my quiet studio working with my hands and materials are the source for the inspiration I draw on for my writing and other activities.
Please see my blog for further thoughts on the arts, alternative paths for artists, and new impulses in the arts.
I see the arts as integral to living a more enchanted, connected, and committed sort of life. This rather than the commercial art world is the context for my work.

NEWS
My book, CHOCOLATE RAIN, 100 ideas for a creative approach to activities in dementia care', came out officially in January this year (2011) published by Hawker Publishers, London. It is a hands-on creative manual for caregivers and friends/family of people who have dementia. I've included over 100 easy to do activities and illustrated them. It was presented in November at the 5th UK Dementia Congress in Bournemouth, UK and was enthusiastically received. For more about my book, please go to my blog.

The Journal of Dementia Care has published 3 feature articles of mine on Creativity and dementia care.