Meet the Team

Donna Fox, Chief Executive Officer

Donna has an extensive track record managing arts Charities and CIC’s and with her deep passion for mental health and creative empowerment she is the perfect person to lead Arty-Folks into an exciting new chapter.

Lorella Medici, Creative Director & Wellbeing Mentor

Founding member, BA Hons Fine Art, Counselling, Art Therapy, Mentoring.  Lorella develops Arty-Folks unique Art Therapy programme to empower individuals reconnect with their creative drive to thrive.

“The creativity of our members never cease to amaze me!  With the right kind of support, everyone is able to grow through trauma and map their own way forward.”

Liz Harvey, Art Programme

BA Hons Illustration at Coventry University. Liz manages the art programme and leads the group workshops.  She also helps our members to build their art portfolio for college/University courses.

“Art allows us to connect to other people in a positive and personal way.  It helps us recognise our uniqueness whilst also enabling us to bond with like-minded people.  That’s when healing begins.”

Tasz Bailey, Peer Recovery Worker

Bsc Hons Dietetics graduate and artist, Tasz has experience in clinical and creative fields she now uses to support participants on their journey to recovery and to achieve their dreams and ambitions.

“There is a strong link between physical and mental health, and in my role I aim to empower our members to overcome hurdles in their lives and make lifestyle choices that strengthen their recovery.”

Christopher Spicer, REACH Peer Support Worker

A self-taught artist, has a science background and worked for many years as laboratory technician.  Chris is now supporting adults with severe mental health needs to reduce dependence on NHS services.

“Attending Arty-Folks allowed me to express my inner self within a supportive and understanding community.  It was a revelatory experience and gave ma great sense of achievement.  Now I’m excited and grateful for the opportunity to serve as Peer Support Worker and help my peers progress along their own mental health journeys.”

“There is always a way forward but sometimes we get so frustrated we can’t see the wood for the trees. 

That’s when Arty-Folks offers that allround support that breaks down what appears insurmountable into manageable  chunks.”

Peter Young, Chair

Peter Young is a Director at Arup, an international consultancy where he leads on software projects, is the global leader of Arup’s Ventures program and serves on the firm’s pro-bono and charitable activity. Peter has extensive experience of charity governance, having been a trustee of Medecins sans Frontieres for 6 years, including as vice chair of MSF-UK and member of the governing Council of MSF’s operational centre in Amsterdam.

“I came across Arty Folks by accident and was impressed by the commitment of the team and their considerable experience, built up over many years, supporting people in and around Coventry.  Sadly, there is a considerable need for mental health services in our community and I’m proud to see the positive impact of Arty-Folks’ work.  I have no artistic ability whatsoever, but am delighted that I am able to support Arty Folks, and who knows, some of the artyness may rub off.”

Dr. Laura Wilde, Vice-Chair

Laura is a researcher in health psychology at Coventry University in the Centre for Intelligent Healthcare.  Her research focuses on understanding the experiences and perspectives of people with COPD and developing wearable technology to manage chronic health conditions.  Laura has experienced Arty Folks from within, starting as a service user to becoming a part-time employee and now supporting the team as vice-chair on the Board of Trustees.

“I’ve learnt so much on my mental health journey with Arty-Folks including how important it is to do what you enjoy and love. Life is too short and I’ve learnt that I actually do have a choice with how I want to spend my time on this earth.  As Trustee my focus is on supporting our amazing staff team to walk the extra mile for our service users whilst also taking care of their own wellbeing.”

Dan Sharkey, Treasurer

Currently a Bank Manager living in the Midlands.  Dan became a Mentor to Arty-Folks in 2018 and supported staff to develop their digital strategy and social media confidence, and stayed in touch with the team ever since.

“As long-term supporter of the charity and now as Treasurer I am keen to see the charity grow in a sustainable manner and succeed in reaching the most vulnerable and isolated in our society.  I love cycling and walking but you won’t find me with a pencil or paint brush in hand!”

Miho Taka, Service User Engagement

Miho previously worked in the private and 3rd sector, and today is Assistant Professor, at the Centre for Trust, Peace and Social Relations at Coventry University.

“Our lives are connected globally.  As educator and researcher in the field of peace and sustainability I am researching the use of natural resources and how it is connected to violent conflict.  However, my first degree is in Fine Art which led me to Arty-Folks during the post-Covid era of global uncertainty and war.  I wanted to rediscover the magic of art to counter balance the pressures of academia.”

William Bryan, Comms/Outreach

Bill’s career has seen him running various aspects of a large-scale well-known visitor attraction, and for the last 7 years he was the Managing Director of Drayton Manor.  As a specialist in customer experience & journey and team creation and engagement Bill  knows how important it is to have and promote good mental health and wellbeing.

“The creative adult is the child who survived-(Walt Disney), is a favourite quote of mine; and one that sprung immediately to mind when I learned about Arty Folks’ social impact.  And working alongside the team I also get a chance to scratch my arty itch!”

Mark Cook, Arts&Engagement

Mark is a Coventry based historian with an extensive track record of working within the cultural sector such as supporting the LTB Showrooms, Coventry’s most community minded pop-up artspace and events venue.  He’s fascinated by the relationship between people and the places they live and for many years in social housing promoting community engagement.

“I like to help people connect and see where those connections lead them. I see my role on the board as being an ambassador in the community, supporting Arty-Folks further develop its links with formal and informal groups and organisations in Coventry.”