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Meet the Future Creatives Tutor: Hannelore Smith

Written byCarys Thomas
Published date 26 April 2022

Multi-disciplinary artist, Hannelore Smith, creates abstract compositional works using textiles, printmaking and 3D processes.

Alongside her practice, Hannelore delivers creative education in museums, galleries and universities, including Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Norwich University of the Arts, and Fitzwilliam Museum Cambridge.

We caught up with the artist to find out more about her practice and hear about why she is so passionate about teaching.

The most exciting element of teaching is what the learners bring to me. I learn as much from them as I teach.

— Hannelore Smith, Artist and Future Creatives Tutor

Hannelore graduated with a BA (Hons) in Textile Design from Chelsea College of Art in 2002 and now works in Norfolk as a practising multi-disciplinary artist and freelance creative educator.

As well as teaching here at Future Creatives, Hannelore is also the director of Artpocket, a Norwich based independent school that delivers courses in art, design and craft.

Learning through the creative process

Hannelore believes that art and creativity play an essential role in a child’s development, which is part of the reason why she enjoys teaching and working with young people. “Art and creativity is so important in children’s development,” she says, “the creative process encourages problem solving, independent thinking and questioning.”

“The most exciting element of teaching is what the learners bring to me,” Hannelore tells us, “I learn as much from them as I teach.”

Inspiration is everywhere

Hannelore’s approach to teaching is one that embraces new ideas and is open to new ways of thinking or approaching a brief. She is committed to helping students realise their full potential by being open to all creative possibilities.

“I love having conversations about ideas, artists and artworks,” she says. “I love seeing happy accidents and surprise.”

Norfolk arts scene

The Norfolk arts scene is something that continually inspires Hannelore, who describes it as “vibrant” and “creative”.

Hannelore finds the beautiful Norfolk coastline to be particularly inspiring. Many artists have been inspired by the coastal light and thriving arts scene in this area, and the environment continues to attract new and emerging artists.