HELLO, I’M SHAN
I have a degree in anthropology, with later studies in documentary photography. I’m interested in visual narratives connected to personal identity, community and social justice.
My professional background encompasses a variety of creative roles and has taken me on a rich journey. I began in the charity sector as a keyworker, working with homeless people with substance misuse issues, later running workshops supporting refugees back into work. After a few years working as a photographer, I transitioned into the Learning teams of various museums and galleries, mentoring young people and co-creating innovative arts programmes for 15-25 year olds, from small artist-led workshops to large-scale festivals.
With the desire to work more deeply with people, I completed my training as an art psychotherapist in 2017. I am registered with both the Health and Care Professions Council and the British Association of Art Therapists.
I bring together the above experiences using an empathetic, creative and person-centred approach, providing me with a rich and powerful way to cultivate ideas and encourage new debates. In my own artmaking, I’m attracted to the abstract, using materials such as collage and clay that can be easily moved and manipulated. Akin to how I would use a camera, these materials can be composed, framed and reframed, with the focus on experimentation and play. You can view my photography here.
After working as a therapist in schools for several years, I currently manage a service in the NHS that uses the arts for wellbeing, for adults with complex and enduring mental health needs. I also regularly devise and deliver creative workshops for adults in both the charity and corporate sectors, and offer individual art therapy online.