An Interview with Nurture Participant Grainne Mullan
As our Nuture incubation programme finishes at the end of this month we wanted to take the opportunity to ask our participants about themselves, their creative practice and what they have learnt.
Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your creative work?
My name is Grainne Mullan, I am a freelance Textile Designer-Maker, specialising in Embroidery. I am most drawn to creating digital embroidery or punch-needle artwork; however, I am a multi-disciplinary artist and would lend my hand to anything artistic. Whilst doing an Artist in Residency in Ulster University I got the chance to practice teaching which allowed me to combine my love of creating with teaching others, which has led to me becoming a facilitator.
Can you tell us about any projects you are currently working on?
I am currently working on Kitsch Sisters, a CIC which I have recently founded with two others (Aoife Mc Crory, Bronagh Diamond). We set up Kitsch Sisters as we felt like there was something missing in Belfast which acted as a bridge between the arts and the community sector. We run workshops and events which encourage people to use creative self-care to promote positive mental health and resilience.
How has your creative idea evolved over the duration of this project?
The core aims of Kitsch Sisters have stayed the same since the beginning, however, we have gotten to know our audience a lot better and more of what the wider community wants/needs in terms of workshops and events. When we moved into our new studio in Belfast City Centre, it opened more opportunity for us in terms of what we could offer as we now have a home which has helped us to evolve.
What have you learnt about yourself and your creative idea?
I have learnt how much of a real need there is for these high artisan workshops at reasonable/low costs in Belfast. Being creative is something that should be accessible to everyone, but times are tough for a lot of people in the current climate. During a cost-of-living crisis it can be hard for people to prioritise creative activities so I am glad we are able to provide free workshops so that people can still socialise outside of their busy lives.
What are your plans for the future?
Plans for the future is to just keep going and see where it ends up! It would be great to see Kitsch Sisters continue to grow whilst helping as many people as possible along the way.
Where can people find you online?
Instagram: @kitschsistersbelfast, @point_angel_
