Since graduating from The Northern School of Art’s BA (Hons) Production Design for Stage & Screen course, Zoe Widdowfield has developed a career combining art, creativity and therapeutic practice.
During her degree, Zoe developed an interactive, aquarium-themed sensory set as her final major project, exploring how creative design could be used to support people with additional needs. The project received support from Daisy Chain, a North East charity supporting autistic children, young people and their families, and the positive response to the work encouraged Zoe to continue exploring the relationship between art, sensory experiences and wellbeing.
Her creative practice led her towards Art Psychotherapy, an area she had identified as a career ambition during her time at The Northern School of Art. She continued her training and professional development in this field, building on her background in art and design to pursue a career as an Art Therapist.
Zoe’s journey demonstrates how the practical and creative skills developed through Production Design can be applied beyond traditional careers in theatre, film and television. Her experience shows how skills in making, visual communication, research and creative problem-solving can provide a foundation for working in other areas where creativity can have a positive impact on people’s lives.
Reflecting on her time at The Northern School of Art, Zoe said:
“I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do when I started the course, but throughout the course I found my ideal and dream profession.”