Architects draw up Artists' help to further lateral thinking
19 November 2007
North East based Mosedale Gillatt Architects (MGA), has commissioned renowned local artist Angela Hughes, to lead a series of drawing classes which aim to further creative thinking amongst their team of staff.
Operating in a world that often relies on modern technology, MGA were keen to work with Hughes to bring art directly into the workplace and unlock traditional drawing skills. Launched in October and taking place during the working day, the programme reinforces MGA’s commitment to staff development and team morale. Director Tim Mosedale says:
“In working with Angela Hughes, we aim to provide an exciting and enjoyable opportunity for our staff to explore their creative skills, whilst encouraging professional development and refreshed thinking. Through ongoing staff investment, we aim to keep ahead of our competitors and continue to provide an innovative approach for our clients".
Hughes was approached by MGA after launching Drawing - Space earlier this year, an artist led organisation designed to create new dialogues and to aid professional development within regional workforces surrounding the process of drawing. As a result, MGA has become the first architectural firm to work with Hughes where the full team of staff are directly benefiting from the programme. Angela Hughes comments:
“With MGA, we wanted to devise a bespoke series of classes that encourage participants to explore architectural situations by examining the space around them. Projects have started to explore the space within our immediate working environment through intervention and the use of objects. We launched the programme with a taster class, and it has been amazing to see the artistic talent set free within the team".
Hughes not only has a wealth of professional experience as an artist, but has also practiced in teaching for many years, working as an Associate Senior Lecturer at Northumbria University and a Visiting Artist at Newcastle University, specialising in Fine Art and Architecture.
This latest initiative is another example of MGA’s ongoing involvement in the arts. From specially commissioned exhibition, ‘Outside In’, which celebrated ten years of best projects through photographic work, to hosting an artist in residence in conjunction with Arts Council England North East, MGA have enjoyed a long history of working with the arts. This continued interest has prompted support from The Sponsor’s Club, an organisation which promotes partnerships between arts and business, as Jane Tarr, Sponsors Club Manager explains:
“We have previously funded an arts project between MGA and a professional artist through our New Partner’s scheme. The scheme encourages businesses to engage with the arts, reap the rewards that this type of partnership can bring and hopefully sustain interest. We are therefore delighted that MGA are continuing to work with artists and I think it’s great that they are now encouraging the whole team to get behind the drawing board”.
For more information about Drawing - Space, telephone Angela Hughes on 0191 4141975 or 0775 9834157.
For further information about MGA, please visit www.mgarchitects.info or call 0191 261 7444.
