Ray Jackson, aged 56, from Wolverhampton
After working as a welder for 30 years and facing “major stress at work”, Ray had a serious nervous breakdown and was in rehabilitation for two years. As part of his treatment Ray had been encouraged to attend Art for Health classes. A General Art course followed which led to Ray enrolling on an Access to HE Art and Design course.
Ray was very nervous at first, he found it difficult to express himself and had very low self esteem. Because of the academic side to the Access course it was discovered that Ray had dyslexia which increased his frustration and he became despondent. However, according to his nominator, David Westwood, when Ray was introduced to sculpture it soon became apparent that he had a “real aptitude for the three-dimensional disciplines.”
David continues, “The transformation - once he had discovered that he had these abilities - was fantastic. His self-confidence grew daily, he became passionate about sculpture. He developed a thirst for knowledge…which gave him the desire to tackle his dyslexia. He then went on to become one of the most accomplished students in his year.”
After gaining the Access Certificate Ray has started his own business selling sculptures, silver jewellery and hand-made toys. He also helps others; he volunteers, works with schools and community art projects and helps people with mental health difficulties - working in an Occupational Therapy Unit teaching woodwork to patients.
Ray says, “In my wildest dreams I could never have imagined where I am now! Studying…has been a life changing experience. It has enabled me to change career, to make many new friends and has also changed my outlook on life. I have now come full circle and the skills that I have learned I am now able to instil in others.”
Ray’s passion shows no sign of abating. He is currently studying Ceramic Sculpture, Ceramics and Silver Jewellery Making and intends to take a teaching qualification in the near future. David concludes that Ray is, “an inspiration…and a tremendous encouragement…a perfect example of how life-changing, beneficial and important Adult Learning can be.”