Hi, I’m Anna. I was born in Leicester and have happily called Dronfield home for the past 24 years. Now at a more mature stage of life, with two teenage children, I’ve begun to gently step away from the constant rush of family life and tune back in to myself. It’s been a time of reflection — reconnecting with what I enjoy, what nourishes me, and what truly matters. Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish — it’s a beautiful act of self-care.
From a young age, creativity has been at the heart of who I am. I was always making, experimenting, selling little creations, and happily having a go at anything hands-on. Studying Art at A Level, followed by time at Loughborough College of Art and Design and Sheffield College, opened up a whole world of design, craft and process, deepening my love for making.
I went on to teach Design and Technology for several years before opening my own craft, gift and gallery shop. Along the way, I continued to explore and immerse myself in a wide range of creative practices — from silversmithing and jewellery making to stained glass, soap making, interior design and photography.
Creativity has always been more than a hobby for me; it’s a form of meditation. Losing track of time while making helps calm my nervous system, brings me back into the present moment, and allows space to refocus and reconnect.
I find inspiration in art galleries, in nature, and in the places I’ve travelled — absorbing the energy, culture and stories of each location. I’ve also always been drawn to crystals, tarot and the more intuitive, spiritual side of life, often feeling a little different and deeply curious about the unseen. These influences naturally weave their way into my creative and healing journey.
Teaching has always been a natural part of who I am. I ran a business focused on children’s parties and craft sessions for several years, before going on to work as a teaching assistant with 4–7 year olds for 11 years, alongside time spent teaching teenagers. Supporting others to learn, explore and grow creatively has always drawn me in.
Now I have the joy of bringing together the two things that have always been at the heart of my life — teaching and creativity. That blend is exactly what inspired me to create these art experiences: spaces to learn, slow down and reconnect through making.
Shala Healing 