Our People
Chris Smith
Chris is the Pre-Degree Level 2 Art & Design Subject Leader and Green Minds Project Coordinator at Arts University Plymouth, as well as the tutor for the IB Diploma in Environmental Systems and Societies. As an artist, his work is mostly concerned with nature connection and environmental issues. Chris has taught at Arts University Plymouth since 2004.
As an educator, Chris has spent many years finding innovative ways to enhance curricula by embedding sustainability and environmental awareness. Projects that Chris has initiated include collaborations with various external organisations, such as Devon Wildlife Trust, The National Marine Aquarium, Regen South West and The National Trust. His current role as Green Minds Project Coordinator at Arts University Plymouth is enabling Chris to further increase opportunities for staff and students at Arts University Plymouth to engage with ‘regenerative art practice’ in meaningful and enriching ways.
Chris is also an active campaigner for sustainability in education and has delivered papers at numerous conferences on the subject.
In addition to his teaching role at Arts University Plymouth, Chris also runs ‘The New Futures Academy’; an outdoor educational initiative, and is a fully qualified counsellor and an experienced counselling tutor. His other professional experience includes freelance photography, conservation and landscape garden design. Chris is currently studying a Permaculture Diploma at the Apricot Centre, Dartington.
Sustainability. Ecological Design. The relationship between learning, wellbeing and mental health in education for ages 16 - 19. Mythology and storytelling.
Exhibitions:
Sep 2013 ‘Praxis’ – Group Exhibition at Trerise Gallery, Plymouth
Sep 2011 ‘Postcards From The Hedge’ – Dartington Space, Dartington Hall, Devon
May 2007 ‘Escapes’ – The Gallery, Arts University Plymouth
Nov 2005 ‘Rooted in Place’ – The Oak Woodlands of Dartmoor, High Moorland Visitor Centre, Princetown
Mar 2005 ‘Discourse, Power and Resistance’ at The Gallery, Arts University Plymouth
April 2004 ‘I Found a Thing!’ at Gallery 22, Ashburton
1998 ‘The Land and Eye’, High Moorland Visitor Centre, Princetown
1998 ‘The Land and Eye’, Forde House, Newton Abbot
1998 Buckfastleigh Arts Festival
1997 Buckfastleigh Arts Festival
1990 Through the Lens, Mountbatten Gallery, Portsmouth