Sophie studied BA Hons Fine Art (Staffordshire University) specialising in sculpture and installation art. Her passions have always been in making art accessible to everyone and she soon found herself with an early career in youth work (2003-2007). Sophie began to recognise the benefits of creative interaction to help empower and excite people and it was in Sutton Hill, Telford, that she met old school legend Roger Bloomfield who taught her techniques in mosaic and workshop delivery. Roger also introduced her to Welfare State International and in 2003 she worked with a team of artists creating lanterns and large scale puppets for their 21st anniversary of Ulverston Lantern Parade. Here her eyes were opened to the fundamental principles of community art.

Sophie has since worked on numerous shows and has created sets, costumes, sculptures and props for theatre, carnivals, festivals and lots of other community events. The nature of her work means she is often working alongside other artists and collaborating to curate and develop projects. During her MA in Community and Youth Work (Durham University), Sophie worked with the Hope Family Project in Wolverhampton (2005-2008) and helped develop their family support service through creative engagement.

Sophie has worked freelance in Birmingham and the surrounding areas for the last 7 years and has helped manage and deliver community arts and craft programmes with organisations such as Sustrans, Ace Dance and Youth, The Challenge Network, The Old Print Works, Anawim Women’s Project, Art Works Hall Green, Birmingham City Council and Telford and Wrekin Council.  In 2012, she completed a PGCE in the lifelong learning sector and supported Level 1-3 students studying Foundation Art and Design at Solihull College.

With a passion for live music, Sophie also manages and promotes local live music project Muzikstan (2012-date) which hosts International and national musicians welcoming them onstage in front of one of Birmingham’s friendliest audiences. The project, run by a team of musicians and music lovers alike, has a great following and frequently works in partnership with Celebrating Sanctuary Birmingham, Brum Spirit and the local legends of Bongo Go. 

Sophie is part of the wider artist collective, Tiger Skins of Sunlight (TSOS), currently based at Martineau Gardens, Edgbaston. The collective have curated and led magical events and shows which help to reignite the wonders of nature within the city’s urban parks and open spaces. Some of their previous projects can be seen here. TSOS work in partnership with local schools, community groups, local parks and businesses and are currently discussing new projects with the Canal and River Trust and the IKON Gallery.

The Big Hoot project has been a refreshing outlet for Sophie as she has created a unique piece of work which has allowed her personal skills set to shine. The concept and techniques used to create Disco Owl have been in her heart for many years and now she is working to create new mirror mosaic sculptures for commissions, gardens and events.