About mentors.


Tallulah Lines: Artist, Activist, and Researcher Bridging Art and Politics.

Tallulah Lines is an artist and activist who uses her creative practice as a powerful tool for activism, critique, self-expression, and community engagement. As Las Iluministas's founder and a Las RestaurAmoras participant, Tallulah seamlessly blends art with activism, addressing critical social issues through her work.

Tallulah is particularly known for her contributions to feminist mural projects in Quintana Roo, Mexico. Since 2021, she has been deeply involved in creating murals to honour femicide victims. These murals, painted with the participation and consent of the victims' families, provide a form of symbolic reparation, bringing healing, awareness, and visibility to a widespread crisis. The RestaurAmoras mural project began in response to the killing of Victoria Salazar, and its impact continues to grow, with each mural serving as a poignant tribute to women whose lives were tragically cut short.

In addition to her grassroots activism, Tallulah’s practice extends to independent commissions and collaborative projects. She recently received a commission from Creative Central NCL, a Newcastle-based initiative supporting independent artists and cultural professionals. Funded by the North East Combined Authority, this project aims to enrich Newcastle’s cultural landscape through artist commissions, grants, and community-focused creative endeavours.

Tallulah’s artistic and activist achievements are deeply rooted in her education and personal ethos. She is currently a Research Associate at the Interdisciplinary Global Development Centre and PhD candidate in Politics at the University of York. Her work is a testament to the power of art as a vehicle for both personal expression and collective transformation.

Tallulah's expertise in large-scale public art projects, particularly her feminist mural work in Quintana Roo, and her creative versatility across various mediums make her an inspiring guide for artists seeking to develop their skills and vision in these areas. Her practice, rooted in storytelling, symbolism, and activism, offers a unique perspective on how art can transform spaces and engage communities.

If you are interested in mural work (drawing directly on walls), vinyl window displays, painting, drawing, or exploring surrealist and mythology-inspired styles, Tallulah Lines could be an excellent mentor for you.

For a closer look at her projects and artistic journey, visit her blog and online portfolio: https://linestallulah.wordpress.com/ 

 

 

Sofia Barton: Multidisciplinary Artist and Community Advocate.

Sofia Barton is a multidisciplinary artist based in the North East of England whose work bridges the realms of identity, culture, and community. Renowned for her ability to foster connections among diverse and marginalized groups, Sofia's practice is deeply rooted in heritage and well-being, creating art that explores the complexities of belonging.

Her social arts practice often involves participatory projects, where community engagement shapes the artistic outcome. Notable works include:

  • 'Blazing Trails' (2023): Commissioned by NEXUS for the new fleet of Metro trains in the North East, this graphic design and illustration project celebrates the region's rich heritage.
  • 'Younity Mural' (2023): A collaborative project commissioned by Helix Arts and funded by Creative Central, this mural highlights themes of identity and unity through community involvement.
  • NE1 Christmas Window Design (2022): A vibrant vinyl window display featuring toy soldiers and tropical birds, celebrating LGBTQIA+ identities during the festive season.
  • 'SHELTER' (2023): A mural commissioned by the North East Hub in Newcastle, created through participatory workshops with over 40 participants. The artwork represents the concept of 'home' and reflects the collective input of supported groups.

Sofia’s expertise spans painting, drawing, textiles, banners, and digital graphics, making her a versatile mentor for anyone exploring heritage, personal identity, LGBTQIA+ themes, or community-driven art. Her work stands as a testament to the power of art in creating inclusive and meaningful dialogues.

For a closer look at her projects and artistic journey, visit her blog and online portfolio: https://www.sofiabarton.co.uk/

 

 

Jo Howell: Sunderland-Based Photographic Artist and Creative Facilitator

Jo Howell is a vibrant, working-class disabled artist based in Sunderland, specialising in alternative process photography, with a focus on cyanotypes. With over a decade of experience, Jo’s multidisciplinary approach spans photography, film, printmaking, animation, and zine creation. Her work is deeply rooted in community engagement, ensuring art is accessible and meaningful to all.

Jo’s dynamic practice extends into filmmaking, time-lapse, drama production, and art trail creation, showcasing her passion for experimentation and community-driven projects. Her inclusive approach fosters creativity and collaboration, making her an inspiring mentor for aspiring creatives.

As a key member of Save the Glass Centre, Jo advocates for the preservation of Sunderland's creative heritage, particularly the art of glassblowing in St. Peter’s Ward. She is committed to working with local organisations to develop sustainable solutions for the building’s energy challenges and ensure its continued role as a cultural and educational hub. This initiative aims to persuade Sunderland University to prioritise the preservation and enhancement of this iconic space, safeguarding vital glassblowing skills for future generations.

Whether you’re seeking to explore alternative photography techniques, participate in collaborative projects, or expand your creative practice across diverse mediums, Jo Howell’s wealth of expertise and community-focused vision offer invaluable guidance and inspiration.

For a closer look at her projects and artistic journey, visit her blog and online portfolio: https://maverickbeyond.com/

 

 

Emma Bennett: Artist Exploring Architecture, Colour, and Memory

Emma Bennett is a Middlesbrough-based artist whose work examines the interplay between colour, architecture, and personal memory. Her practice ranges from intimate paintings to large-scale, site-specific wall artworks. Through the use of pattern and colour, Emma draws inspiration from her personal connections to Modernist and Post-War architecture, reflecting on local social histories. Her art celebrates the architectural beauty and social significance of often-overlooked buildings and places, particularly those under threat of neglect or demolition.

A Guisborough native, Emma holds an MA in Fine Art (Distinction) from MIMA School of Art and Design (2019). Her work has been widely exhibited in venues such as Platform A Gallery, MIMA, and Gallagher and Turner, and has garnered recognition, including a runner-up prize in the KPP Prize for Art, Architecture, and Design in 2018.

Emma’s commissions highlight her versatile approach to scale and medium:

  • 2024: Middlesbrough Moquette, site-specific work at Middlesbrough Train Station (commissioned by Middlesbrough Council).
  • 2022: South Bank Station, oil on metal bridge (commissioned by The Saabat Gallery, supported by Groundswork NE).
  • 2022: Wall painting for The Masham in Middlesbrough (commissioned by Navigator North).
  • 2021: Pink Walkway, a monumental 9 x 4.75m mural at MIMA.
  • 2021: Doodle sheet designs for MIMA's Atrium (commissioned by MIMA).

Emma’s practice embraces a range of mediums, including vinyl, textiles, and wall paintings, bringing bold colour and dynamic scale to her projects. Her work is ideal for anyone seeking large-scale pieces, vibrant designs, or artwork inspired by architectural nostalgia and social storytelling.

For a closer look at her projects and artistic journey, visit her https://www.emmabennettstudio.co.uk/