In a world where art often seems confined to galleries and elite circles, Art College-trained Caribbean artist Helen France, MBE, emerges as a beacon of inspiration. Born in the lush landscapes on the island of Nevis, in the Caribbean, she arrived in the UK as part of the Windrush Generation — an extraordinary movement of individuals who answered the call to help rebuild Britain after the devastation of World War II.
With a heart full of dreams and a spirit shaped by her roots, Helen has fashioned a remarkable journey that intertwines culture, resilience, and community through her vibrant art.
Growing up amidst the tropical flora of her homeland, Helen developed an appreciation for nature that would later serve as a foundation for her art. Finding beauty in the plants that adorned her garden, she began experimenting with them, creating pigments from flowers and leaves.
Helen said: “I used the plants in my garden to create paint, and used stones and rocks as my canvases, this was my first exposure to art, I loved, experimenting with the flowers to create different colours, art has been part of my life since I was young, and even now as an older woman art is still in my soul.”
Each stroke of her brush became a celebration of her heritage, a testament to her creativity that reflected the richness of her Caribbean culture.
Helen’s artistic journey was not solely about personal expression; it was also a mission to share her passion with others. After settling in the UK, she enrolled in art college, determined to hone her skills while remaining true to her roots.
Her works, which echoed the vibrancy of Caribbean Life, began to resonate with audiences across the country, exhibiting her art in diverse venues — from community centres, theatres, and universities to prominent Art galleries.
Currently, Helen is immersed in her latest collection, “Aunt Dolly’s Claypot,” which tells the story of her journey from crafting clay pots with her Aunt Dolly to selling them in bustling Caribbean markets. This project serves as both an homage to her heritage and a social commentary on the significance of traditional crafts in contemporary art.
Through “Aunt Dolly’s Claypot,” she aims to inspire dialogue about sustainability, craftsmanship, and the importance of preserving cultural practices in an ever-changing world.