Jo Plumb: From Challenge to Creativity

Finding Inspiration in the North East

Jo Plumb’s paintings speak to the heart of the North East – shimmering acrylic landscapes of light streams and rugged coasts, each canvas a personal homage to the region she’s called home for over a decade. Though she’s not a native Geordie, Jo’s deep connection to Newcastle stretches back to visits with her sister when she was a teenager and has grown ever since.

Despite earning a photography and a keen interest in painting, Jo found the doors to an arts career firmly closed after university. “I always thought about painting professionally,” she recalls, “but I never knew where to start.”

Discovering Self-Employment

That changed in 2023, when she attended a job fair at St James’ Park and was stopped in her tracks by a simple question from one of the team at FIRST: “Have you ever thought about self-employment?” That spark led Jo to complete the Level 1 Business course, planting the seeds of possibility even as she took up paid work elsewhere.

Yet life took an unexpected turn when Jo was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was a stark reminder of how precious time is, and Jo decided it was time to stop dreaming and start doing. She enrolled in the Level 2 Business course at FIRST, determined to turn her passion into a business.

A Course in Confidence and Community

“The business model canvas was a game-changer,” Jo says. “It made me think about branding and marketing - and I finally got round to setting up my socials!” The course gave her a sense of structure and the assurance she needed to stay on track. Most importantly, it opened doors to a community she hadn’t known existed. “I’d always struggled to have the courage to talk about my paintings,” she admits. “The more you talk about it, the more used to talking you get.”

Looking Ahead

With her confidence growing, Jo’s dreams are shifting from possibility to action. She plans to start selling at markets and submitting her work to art exhibitions in London – taking the leap to be proud of herself and her art. “It’s been hard work, fun, and community,” she reflects, summing up her experience with FIRST in three words.

Advice for Aspiring Creatives

For anyone else hesitating to make the jump, Jo’s advice is clear: “Definitely do it - it’s an amazing resource, and it’s free! I’ve already referred a friend.”

As Jo prepares to bring her vibrant visions of the North East to a wider audience, her story is a powerful reminder that the right support and a bit of courage can make dreams reality.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-plumb-663a5049/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joplumbart?igsh=MThrZm1kZDQycGZpcw==