Volunteer Spotlight: Martha Ip

This month we have asked Volunteer Martha Ip to contribute to our Volunteer Spotlight series where we are asking volunteers to share their experience with us.

Hi Martha! Tell us a little about yourself. How long have you been volunteering with Castlefield Gallery?

Hi, everyone. I am a student who is taking a gap year before studying art and design foundation. I am also a Hongkonger who has been in Manchester for just one and a half years.

What made you want to volunteer here?

In order to familiarise myself with the art community in Manchester, as Manchester has a wide variety of art to offer, and a lot of opportunities for artists. I would like to take part in the development and installation of exhibitions, because I believe that being the person behind is as important as being at the front.

What’s your favourite thing about volunteering at Castlefield Gallery?

Well, that must be working at the front desk to connect with visitors, the gallery staff, the exhibiting artists and artists who are interested to join. During Omid Asadi’s exhibition, the artist shared a delicate message of peace by offering dandelion tea to all the visitors. Some visitors have left some nice feedback and I connected with artists who wanted to talk to us and exhibit their work. I love how art connects people.

What would you say to someone who’s thinking of volunteering with Castlefield Gallery?

Just go ahead! Castlefield Gallery has a very diverse team and welcomes everyone, whatever their gender, age, religious belief and so on.