TOTS associate blends occupational therapy practice with successful artist career

The Occupational Therapy Service (TOTS) is proud to celebrate the recent achievements of its associate occupational therapist, Jen Gash, as her concurrent career in art flourishes, supported by her clinical practice. 

As an occupational therapist for almost 30 years, Jen has worked across public, private and third-sector settings, building an impressive portfolio of experience in leadership, coaching, facilitation and creative practice. Alongside her work for TOTS, Jen is an award-winning landscape artist, coach and creative writer. The artistic side of her career continues to go from strength-to-strength. Since winning Sky Landscape Artist of the Year in 2018 and painting a commission for the Imperial War Museum, her achievements have continued to accumulate, none more so than in recent months.

So far this year Jen has won an award from the John Richardson Residency, exhibited in Swansea as part of a Neuroexpression event and been involved with the Elizabeth Casson Trust’s landmark exhibition ‘Strike A Light – The Art and Science of Occupational Therapy’. ‘Strike A Light’ was the first exhibition of its kind in the UK to explore the history, impact and creative power of occupational therapy. 

Commenting on the exhibition, Jen said:

“Occupational therapy has always been about helping people reconnect with what matters most to them. Creativity can be a powerful way of expressing identity, building confidence and rediscovering possibility. It’s wonderful to see that celebrated through this exhibition.”

Her artistic practice has become increasingly recognised for its expressive and reflective qualities, often drawing on themes of wellbeing, emotion and lived experience. Through painting and creative writing, Jen walks her talk, using principles that sit at the very heart of occupational therapy. “Painting keeps me well. Without painting and more recently writing fiction, I struggle to keep my identity. It’s not just a hobby and I don’t make paintings primarily for selling – it’s so much more than that.”

In conclusion, TOTS Co-director, new ECT Chair and international occupational therapist, Samantha Shann, added:

“The Occupational Therapy Service is delighted to see Jen’s continued achievements in art, and we look forward to continuing to work alongside her to support clients in meaningful, innovative and life-changing ways.”