Artist, educator, curator, and rebel. A portfolio worker - someone that has lots of different artistic things going on. Creative variety keeps life interesting. Elaine created Birdland on a roundabout in Chelmsford, it is a birdhouse city - commissioned by a housing developer - and created in collaboration with local kids. More on the housing crisis and the return of peregrines to Chelmsford. Bronze plaques with collective nouns for birds. Training robins to land on your hand. Elaine’s creative career started at BBC Essex, as a receptionist, then a news Radio Production Assistant. Blue Peter’s Katy Hill worked there too! Elaine also got to run the first BBC Essex website. She tried three times to become an artist in her life. Finally someone at BBC Essex suggested she should try to become an artist. It started at Chelmsford College with a foundation degree, part time, which she completed in one year (instead of two). And then a five year art degree at Central St.Martins. While looking after two young children at the same time. Legendary commitment to art! BBC Essex kindly allowed her to work the degree around her job. Then she did a Masters degree. What is the difference between Art and Fine Art? Creating the alter ego Aileen Liberty and becoming a professional artist. Making fake For Sale boards for a non-existent real estate agent. Funding art - paint and canvas is expensive. How to get into art when you aren’t rich. Painting sales science - dark green and gold paintings are big sellers. Why did blue and purple blow people’s minds back in the day (back back back in the day). Creating a new evaluation system for Chelmsford Museum exhibitions. Sand timers for appreciating art. Can digital art be counted as ‘art’? Yes. Using art as a catalyst for discussion about the environment. Painting road art for Tour De France in Essex. Reclaim the Seax! Elaine got EXPELLED from school at 15 - but made up for it with adult education. Artists should never work for free - but value exchange in volunteering is ok. Elaine is a fine art gangsta.

Elaine Tribley on Instagram

Elaine's website

Are You Creative? recorded by Adam at Lawker Media, Chelmsford, ESSEX
Edited by Nick Hearne
Artwork by Alpaca Antenna

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Thanks to NGDA for their support

Recorded in Chelmsford, Essex, UK