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Where did it all begin?
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After completing a twelve-week photography and printing course at Women's Print in The Custard Factory, she was inspired to start her own business. Her artistic journey began over thirty years ago when she encountered a board member of the Prince’s Youth Business Trust (PYBT). Motivated by their guidance, she applied for and received a £1,000 grant, which she used to launch her first business, Paintbox Sisters. From here Dee opened a new chapter as a community artist.
Community Artist
​Her journey started over three decades ago, where she has facilitated transformative art workshops for organizations such as the Birmingham Rathbone Society, Victoria School in Northfield, Birmingham Youth and Community Services, and Artlink.
These rich experiences, coupled with her role as a college lecturer, have enabled her to work closely with children and adults with Special Educational Needs (SEN), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Multi-Sensory Impairment (MSI), Physical Disabilities (PD), and Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD). Through her work, she fosters creativity, inclusion, and empowerment, enriching the lives of those she supports
Also, her work in the community saw her carry out a variety of different projects, delivering banner and silk screen printing workshops, murals, the construction of carnival costumes and art sessions for children and adults of all abilities.
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Educational journey
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In her late twenties, she returned to education after having left school without any qualifications. While working in salons nationwide, she earned NVQs in hairdressing. Her enthusiasm for learning inspired her to pursue teaching qualifications, leading to her transition into a full-time teaching career in 1999. Over the span of 17 years, she thrived in higher education, gaining recognition as a grade one outstanding lecturer. In the later years of her teaching journey, she broadened her qualifications by completing a BSc in Sports Therapy.
Community Artist
​Her journey started over three decades ago, where she has facilitated transformative art workshops for organizations such as the Birmingham Rathbone Society, Victoria School in Northfield, Birmingham Youth and Community Services, and Artlink. These rich experiences, coupled with her role as a college lecturer, have enabled her to work closely with children and adults with Special Educational Needs (SEN), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Multi-Sensory Impairment (MSI), Physical Disabilities (PD), and Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD). Through her work, she fosters creativity, inclusion, and empowerment, enriching the lives of those she supports
Also, her work in the community saw her carry out a variety of different projects, delivering banner and silk screen printing workshops, murals, the construction of carnival costumes and art sessions for children and adults of all abilities.
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Parallel to this Dee also focused on history with an art installation called 'Front Room' presenting the traditional Caribbean living room from the 1960s, and other projects with Jubilee Arts, West Bromwich. It was during this period she also became a board member of the PYBT representing them at community and business events across the country and also at The Pavilions, The Houses of Parliament, where she met MP Diane Abbott.
Dee is a passionate producer, human centred changemaker, facilitator, mentor, and leader committed to uplifting communities across the West Midlands. With a holistic approach, Dee strives to improve access to resources, knowledge, and training, empowering individuals to unlock their full potential and create meaningful, lasting change. Her work highlights the transformative power of arts and culture in enhancing lives and empowering individuals, promoting well-being, and fostering holistic community development.
Collaborating with stakeholders, community partners, charities, CICs, local businesses, and councillors, Dee has been instrumental in driving social, cultural,civic, and physical transformations across the West Midlands.
She embraces innovative yet practical approaches to empower communities and organizations in fostering meaningful social and behavioural change. With a deep commitment to the transformative power of art and culture, Dee reimagines how individuals connect with their local environments, arts organizations, and social support systems. Her work amplifies voices, nurtures inclusivity, and inspires a vision of vibrant, connected, and life-enhancing communities.