Filiz Taylan Yuzak

I am an artist living on the edge of The New Forest. I use folklore, folksong, old customs, games and rituals to explore contemporary issues particularly social and economic disparity. Country living can be a strange mix of bounty and hopelessness but when people have access to their own strong and sinuous roots, their own history and stories they have anchorage and hope. I seek the stories that connect us and as an artist I’m thinking of different ways of pinning them up on the metaphorical village hall notice board for all to see. Alongside my own practice I run drawing workshops as The Village Hall Draw and community workshops around the New Forest working with Culture in Common and Hampshire Cultural Heritage amongst others.

With over 20 years of experience in the creative industry, I’ve seen firsthand how fast things change and how easy it is to feel like you’ve been left behind. I’ve worked with design teams, led projects, and coached creatives through career transitions, and I’m passionate about helping others rediscover their confidence and creative flow. After my wife

I am a professional freelance artist and community arts facilitator based in Fleet, Hampshire, with over 25 years’ experience working across London and the South East. I specialise in plasticine model making, mosaics, and printmaking, delivering inclusive, hands-on workshops through my business Art for Everyone. I work with people of all ages and abilities in schools, festivals, community settings, and care environments. I believe passionately in the power of creativity to support wellbeing, build confidence, and bring communities together, creating fun and supportive spaces where everyone is encouraged to explore their own artistic potential.