Paula Hickey

Paula Hickey is a Leeds-based artist. She holds a BA in Visual Communication and MA in Creative Practice. She has exhibited jointly and in group exhibitions in Italy, Ireland, Bath, Leeds and York. She was shortlisted for the Royal Academy Summer show 2022. She has both led and taken part in residencies in the UK, Ireland and Greece. She hosts workshops sharing some of the experimental processes she has developed. She is also a founding member of the TCL art Collective.

 

After more than two years of working collaboratively with partners the Ryevitalise Landscape Partnership Project; the National Trust and the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Paula is presenting work inspired by the River Rye. She explores the beauty and liveliness of the river environment and the patterns it makes. Using experimental techniques to harness natural processes, her aim is to make visible that which might otherwise remain hidden or overlooked. This open studio follows on from the Cause and Effect exhibition shown at Nunnington Hall in 2021. 

 

Paula says “Working on the ‘Cause and Effect’ project has been a very enriching experience. Getting to know the Rye River and the beautiful landscape through which it flows has deepened my connection with nature and my awareness of the absolute power and beauty of water. Open Studios gives me an opportunity to share this experience.

 

My art practice, which is often informed by research, benefitted greatly through collaboration with the partners on the project. Having access to the knowledge base around river processes and the environmental concerns has enhanced my understanding of the importance of rivers in our lives”.   

 

This Open Studio is being supported by the partners listed above as well as Hovingham Hall and includes information and maps of the River Rye catchment and Ryedale area.  

 

‘Ryevitalise aims to conserve, enhance and restore the natural and cultural heritage of the River Rye and its tributaries, and to reconnect people with the area’s history, wildlife and landscapes. Supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and partners, Ryevitalise works to energise local communities and volunteers, support farmers, and welcome visitors from near and far.’