Heart Team

Hi!

My name is Ann-Marie and I am the founder of HeART studio. I live in Markinch with my family and have been teaching in the primary and nursery sectors for over 20 years. I have been fortunate to work with hundreds of children and families during this time and continue to work in schools and Early Years settings in Fife.

In my early teaching career, I  started exploring the idea of 'process art' whilst looking at ways of promoting Creativity in the classroom. I was curious about exploring the Reggio Emilia approach to Education which is very much child focused and relationship driven. Through professional reading, training and years of classroom practice, I learned to create learning environments which allowed for connection, observation and wonder. I now understand the true value of following the interests of children and empowering them to lead their own learning. 

The most memorable moments in my career thus far have been while observing children 'in the zone,' when they are highly engaged in activities that they have CHOSEN to undertake. When children can explore the world around them at their own pace and are under no pressure to produce a carbon copy of what others have created, true learning happens, naturally.

My dream for many years had been to open a safe space where children  could come and unleash their creativity. It soon became apparent however that there was a need to provide these experiences to people of all ages and backgrounds! 

The Mental Health crisis in Scotland has fuelled my commitment to offer something different for people. Artistic experiences are proven to help reduce stress and we aim to offer a warm, welcoming environment where people can connect with others. We aim to work in partnership with schools, charities and therapeutic professionals. Details of these services and contact information will be posted soon.

I look forward to welcoming you to my wee studio in the HeART of Fife. 

Annie xx

Process Art is all about making and doing, rather than the finished product. That doesn't mean that the end product can't be fantastic, only that this is not the focus. Process Art is about seeing the beauty in the imperfections of our child's work. It is about recognising that art is a special moment in childhood, captured right where the child is developmentally. When the adult can do that, our children's work becomes beautiful.

At HeART studio we set up 'invitations to create' where the adults set up materials and learning spaces which the children can use as they wish. There will always be suggested activities however the focus will be on encouraging children to make their own choices.