The Palette of Us - Nadia Halliday

This is an art piece that I did with my personal development community. I led the session. We each chose a colour and a shape and painted, working layer upon layer with shape and colour.

The homework I gave was to think of something to put on top of the background that spoke to each one of us. I pondered on my personal development community. We have different outlooks on life and experiences and yet we build each other up and we are each a vital part in our worldwide community. I thought a paint palette really depicted the coming together of our group and our heartfelt painting session. The paints painted in this artwork shows us as individuals and yet we’re together on this palette, the same bit of wood, which is part of the Earth, which is part of the world.

For as long as I can remember I’ve loved patterns and colours. I usually take my inspiration from nature, and I am known for my “rainbow” style! My love of patterns made me realise links to Maths, obtaining a 3rd in Civil Engineering at Brighton University. I currently teach Maths and Art and I’m working on Maths Games designs. My love of form and mixed art mediums has led me to explore many different disciplines including ceramics, acrylics, knitting, weaving, crocheting, beadwork, sewing, as well as doll & teddy bear fashioning.

I have had trouble with my physical & mental health since childhood and was diagnosed with depression and anxiety in 2009. I’ve been with Centrepieces since 2017. I fully participated in the Centrepieces Zoom meetings during Lockdown, learning new techniques and having fun with other artists, a great time for creatives.

I do find that my artwork reflects me and my life experience. In 2020 Black Lives Matter came to the forefront of UK’s consciousness. I did a lot of ‘Journaling on Canvas’ that year because of it. A lot of this artwork was exhibited during the Centrepieces “Lockdown” exhibition in 2020/21.

I was a featured artist for Centrepieces’ Recovery through Art Oct - Dec 2021 and Open Exhibition Jan 2022, showing my ceramics and acrylic work. My ceramic work, Tea for Two (Heart of My Heart) appears in a montage within Grayson’s Art Club, Series 3, showing my work on the theme of ‘Love’.

Collaborating with youth and peer-led community groups is where I thrive, welcoming the challenges and resourcefulness of differing environments offers me a true sense of satisfaction.