Gabrielle Cooper

I am an artist and creative facilitator with over 12 years of experience leading art and creative programmes in community, educational, and institutional settings. My background is in Fine Art, Photography, and Ceramics, and my teaching practice has been one that is rooted in inclusive, hands-on, and accessible creative learning.

My lessons are structured, supportive, and highly practical. Sessions typically begin with demonstrations and visual examples, followed by guided making time where students are encouraged to experiment and develop their own ideas. I provide one-to-one support throughout, adapting to individual needs, abilities, and creative goals. My approach is patient and collaborative, focusing on nurturing existing ideas and equipping individuals with the skills and practices to achieve their creative goals.

I have extensive experience working with adults and young people, including those with learning disabilities, autism, mental health challenges, and varied educational backgrounds. I have delivered workshops, outreach programmes, and long-term courses for charities, schools, and arts organisations, including Community Focus in Barnet, where I have worked for almost eight years across photography, printmaking, mixed media, and ceramics.

I am particularly excited by approaches to alternative education, as having founded and run an artist platform early in my career, I understand the importance of supporting artists who face barriers to traditional pathways. I have come to understand that traditional pathways push “research-based practice” where, for many people, a “practice-based research” approach is more suitable to the way they learn.

Alongside teaching, I have project-managed creative programmes, curated exhibitions, developed digital literacy initiatives, and supported organisations in expanding their creative reach. My approach is patient, collaborative, and rooted in the belief that creativity should be accessible to everyone, regardless of background or previous experience.