Who is April fool?
Hi, I am April Barlow. A Wiltshire based independent Artist trading as April Fool. Known for my sense of humour and original point of view I bring creativity and fun to any task. Down to earth and hard working my values are vintage.​​
“Better to be a Witty fool than a foolish wit." William Shakespeare
EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION
Independent Artist
2014- Present
April Fool was launched with a one women show in The Yelde Hall. I have a portfolio of clients including the Champagne producer Andre Clouet. Aside from commission work I have shown and sold from my collection in restaurants. I was highly commended at the Devises Oexmann awards, Wiltshire museum. I have also run workshops as part of Chippenham museum’s educational programme. I specialise in oil paintings and large scale mixed media illustrations. Private tutorials and workshops are available on request.
Teacher of Art 2003-2008
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I worked in several schools across wiltshire teaching Art and Drama. I became a trusted supply teacher and developed excellent classroom management skills. At the John of Gaunt School Trowbridge I was joint head of Art with responsibility for line managing staff and KS3 Art. I also taught GCSE and A level classes. I received outstanding lesson observations and was a caring tutor. I enjoyed developing original and creative schemes of work.
PGCE
ART & DESIGN
2002
University of the West of England PASS
BA
History of Art
2001
Foundation diploma
art & design
2001
A levels
Goldsmiths College University College London. 2:1
City of Bath College MERIT
School of S. Mary and S. Anne Abbots Bromley
Art and Design Grade A
Classical Civilisation Grade A
English Literature Grade A
A/S Religious Studies Grade A
Skills
With a honours in L.A.M.D.A Gold, I possess a clear and engaging speaking voice. I frequently participate in local life drawing class and have volunteered at Kandu Arts Chippenham, and facilitated art workshops at my grandfather's nursing home. As an intuitive and articulate communicator, I bring a diverse set of transferable skills gained from my background in art, education, and business.
Philosophy of Foolery
I was going to make some art today...
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But ran an errand for person A
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Person B, they needed me
‘one more thing’ said person C
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Through sun and rain and mist and fog
I really must just walk the Dog
I’m feeling this will never end
But E you see, she needs a friend
People often have to eat
And I must help with hands and feet
Person F is on the phone
They need a little vent and moan
Mr G can’t walk can he?
And H, you know can hardly see!
I need to fill in all these forms
Do it now the email warns
J is having a birthday tea
And K just will not let me be
L was passing we had a chat
M so sorry, must do that;
N has a problem with his flat
And O I haven’t wormed the cat!
Party time for person P
I’ll go along and help with T
Q is what I stood in next
R has just sent me a text
Then, well you will never guess
A random visit from persons S
Person T I’ve now paid thee
Do U start to follow me?
V needs a lift I’ll be real quick
W? .. please, just wait one tick
Extra time is what we need
When there are hungry souls to feed
It leaves me often asking Y
Even when I really try
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There’s little time for person Z
Before it’s time for bath and bed
All this, having just been said
One thing is popping in my head
Van Gogh with all his famous Art
Said first to love with all your heart
It’s the best creation, you can make
Without the love, you’ll be a fake
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When finally you are all set
To put aside your alphabet
Who are you, what will you be?
I guess we’ll have to wait and see.
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April ©