We're excited to sit down with Jude Warham, an artist who has made significant strides since joining the Talent Development team with Art of Protest (AOP) for Sunderland’s Future Walls Programme. Over the past year, Jude has been involved in a variety of exciting projects that have showcased his artistic talents and passion for community engagement. In this interview, we delve into Jude's artistic journey, from his formative years in Dublin, influenced by his mother's creative spirit, to his pivotal experiences with renowned muralists that ignited his love for urban art. Jude shares his educational path, the challenges he faced, and the serendipitous moments that led him to Sunderland's vibrant art scene. He also reflects on the impact of the Future Walls Programme on his professional growth and his aspirations for the local art community.

Jude in action, bringing his unique mixed media piece to life with a blend of paint and collage

AoP: Hello, Jude! It's been a year since you joined the Talent Development team with AOP for Sunderland’s Future Walls Programme. Before we delve into specifics, tell us a little about yourself. Where did your love for art begin? Did you always know you wanted to pursue it professionally?

Jude: I’m an artist who made the journey from Dublin to the Northeast. Growing up in Ireland, a place renowned for its powerful murals, I was surrounded by street and fine art, especially thanks to my mam. She was a creative writing teacher who fostered a love for the arts in all its forms. Her enthusiasm and open-mindedness toward creativity planted the seeds of fascination in me, particularly for galleries and street art.

My mam nourished my creative soul through her own artistic passions, with a love that only a mother could give. Words can't truly capture how grateful I am for her influence in my life. Without her, I doubt my love for art would be what it is today. As a child, I often thought to myself, "I want to do that," even though I never quite believed it was possible. Art felt like a distant star, beautiful and magnificent, yet seemingly out of reach. Looking back now, I realise just how much her encouragement shaped my path, and I'm filled with gratitude and nostalgia for those formative years.

Jude’s piece, NE8-SR1, commissioned by the Auxiliary Project Space, Middlesbrough to conclude the studio residency after winning the New Graduate Award in 2023. It was exhibited during Middlesbrough Art Week 2023. (photographed by Rachel Deakin

AoP: Looking back, can you share a memory from your childhood or upbringing that

fostered your creative spirit?

Jude: Oh, absolutely! When I was around the uncertain age of 13, I was fortunate enough to be one of a select few pupils chosen to take part in a street art and graffiti workshop with the renowned Irish muralist and artist Mazer. This experience was a pivotal moment in my life. While the spray paint did ruin my trainers, Mazer introduced us to the "ropes" and rules of graffiti, guiding us through the entire process from concept and design to final execution. He taught us about the true essence and etiquette of street art. You know that feeling when it seems like the stars align perfectly and your head kind of explodes? It was just like that. This moment ignited my lifelong passion for urban art. It was as if my dreams had suddenly transformed into tangible goals. It’s crucial to me that every child is afforded this opportunity.

AoP: Following your passion led you to a bachelor’s degree in fine art from the University of Sunderland. What drew you to their program specifically?

Jude: It all began when I was 16 and moved to Newcastle-upon-Tyne for A Levels, but I dropped out after the school wouldn't let me choose my subjects. Instead, I became a chef's apprentice. After working in various kitchens, German vineyards, and volunteer kitchens in Belgium, I decided to pursue my true passion: art. I applied for a Level 3 Art and Design Access course with just a few sketchbooks and no English qualifications—call it Irish luck. The course was intense but transformative, teaching me everything from etching and screen printing to digital drawing. I produced nine portfolios, one for each module. It was the best decision I made for my career at the time and I’m glad I didn’t let fear stop me. The support from Newcastle College, especially from mentors like Anna E MacRae, was invaluable. Anna encouraged me to explore universities in the Northeast. Although I considered York St John's, I wasn't willing to move. I eventually chose the University of Sunderland over Newcastle University. Despite Newcastle's vibrant graffiti scene, Sunderland's friendly campus and exceptional faculty, like contemporary oil painter Peter Wolland, won me over. Sunderland felt grassroots yet well-equipped, and everything fell into place beautifully and unexpectedly.

AoP: The Future Walls Programme is a unique initiative for Sunderland and something that's never been offered before to local artists in the city. Did you feel there was a gap or a need for a programme like this in the local art scene? How did you react when you learned about Future Walls's talent development programme and the chance to be involved in the movement?

Jude: When I first heard about the Future Walls project, I was bursting with excitement and relief! I thought about how perfectly it could showcase what an awesome city Sunderland is by highlighting its defining features, as well as employing the local art community. From my experience with community art and engagement, it's amazing how quickly public perception can change when positive action is directed towards their hometown. It's one of the best feelings ever. Who wouldn't want to be a part of that?

Jude on the tools with Future Wall’s talent development team at SunLun Calling and Pride Fest 2023 in Sunderland

AoP: Your first year with us has seen you involved in projects like the SunLun and Pride Festival and then taken you out of Sunderland and to York where you helped teach secondary school students during the York High Creative Learning workshops. What was your experience like during the delivery of these projects?

Jude: My experience during the delivery of these projects was incredible. Each project felt like a new adventure, from the vibrant SunLun and Pride Festival to the creative energy at York High. I honed my artistic skills, learning new techniques and refining my craft with each project. Working with kids at York High was particularly rewarding, as I developed my ability to direct and engage with students effectively. I became more flexible with designs and learned to embrace happy accidents, which often led to unexpected and delightful results. Overall, the entire experience was immensely rewarding, both personally and professionally.

AoP: As part of the Future Walls programme, Art of Protest heavily focuses on empowering local talent. How has being part of the talent development team impacted you personally? Has it helped you grow professionally or feel more confident in your own artistic abilities?

Jude: Being part of the talent development team with the Future Walls programme has had a profound impact on me personally and professionally. It has significantly strengthened my spray painting skills, allowing me to grow more confident in my abilities. The diverse roles I’ve been given look impressive on my CV, showcasing my versatility and experience. Moreover, this experience has boosted my confidence in delivering information and highlighting the benefits of encouraging creativity in developing minds, much like my own experiences with my mam and Mazer.

Nurturing Talent and Creativity: Jude Warham on Passion, Education, and Community Engagement