Graduating with an MA in Textile Design, I started my career as a freelance knitwear designer. During this time, I had a life changing opportunity to travel to remote Himalayan Refugee Settlements in Nepal to share Intarsia skills with the amazingly strong exiled Tibetan Women who lived there.

As a result of this, I now have my dream job as a participatory artist - this allows me to prioritise art practices which facilitate social inclusion. Early on, I was fortunate to travel to China and Hong Kong where I was Artist-in-Residence in international schools just prior to the historic events of 1997. I also worked on the Asian Women in Action, V&A, Moguls Tent Project and more, which confirmed my love of the textile medium as a chronicler and storyteller. 

Today, I approach my tapestry projects with as few preconceived notions as possible. I allow space for people to collaborate with one another, in the moment and the place they inhabit. My interest is in creativity as a positive force for individual empowerment, community cohesion and social change. This can generate conversations which are hard to have around the impact of issues like displacement, poverty and social injustice. I strive for honesty and to look at things as they are without judgement and encourage interpersonal literacy.

My creative practice is a mix of intention and intuition where I trust the creative process. The process is engagement, participation and ownership and the Tapestries are beacons of colour, resilience and hope. They have earned their recognition from Alice Kettle and Sir Grayson Perry, who create social commentary tapestries on the refugee crises and class respectively. 

I also create outdoor carnival arts, like large scale lanterns and interactive puppets which inspire awe and delight in audiences. I do this as community projects or as a commissioned artist.

Over the years I have also run a programme involving volunteers locally and from all over the world. Their input has been a wonderfully enriching experience for everyone involved. 

Download my CV here.

I am available for commissions/collaborations/project-based work and workshops, locally and internationally. Do get in touch with me.

Testimonials

  • Dear Donna, what an amazing piece of work, so well crafted. I am proud to have inspired such a great tapestry. Keep up the good work!

    Sir Grayson Perry CBE RA Hon FRIBA & Alan Measles

  • It was incredibly moving to unveil the tapestry commemorating Storm Desmond’s impact on Kendal with the residents of Sandlylands and the fantastic artist, Donna Campbell. Storm Desmond was devastating, but it brought us together.

    Tim Farron, Member of Parliament for Westmorland & Lonsdale

  • You have done so much amazing work congratulations, what moving and important projects. I would love to see the films.

    Alice Kettle, Contemporary Textile Artist & Professor in Textile Arts in MIRIAD Manchester School of Art

  • Donna has a wonderful capacity to enthuse adults and children alike with her love of art, and she always works hard to ensure that everyone involved receives a memorable experience.

    Caronne Field, Head Teacher, Selside Primary School

  • The project & final installation was extremely well-received, by the children, parents and staff from across the schools, not least because of Donna's professionalism and exceptional contribution.

    Andy Mortimer FRSA, Art Education Consultant & Lecturer

  • Your work is stunning, you put so much of yourself into it, really proud to be involved.

    Sue Gilmartin, Community Artist, Manna House

  • Of all the exhibitions that we’ve had here, this is the closest to the spirit of Kurt Schwitters.

    Ian Hunter, The Merz B

  • I had an extraordinary conversation with a parent today about the amazing impact your work has on the children you work with.

    Nikki Smith, Windows On Art

  • The project you ran with Birthwaite Sheltered Housing residents really was exemplary.

    Philippa Troutman, Pioneer Project’s, Looking Well Studios

  • I have really enjoyed your class. My artwork and confidence has come on in leaps and bounds. Thank you Donna!

    Joyce Sedgewick, Adult Drawing & Painting Group

  • Donna's approach is free, it's empowering, and it works.

    Shannon Quigley, Community Engagement Officer, Lakeland Arts

  • I'm feeling so free, you've done something for me no one else has been able to do for me in 76 years.

    Mary Gordon, Alzheimer's Art Group

  • Thank you for all that you do, you really are motivating a group of students who struggle to conform in school.

    Marian Kearney, Inclusion Manager, South Lakes Federation of Schools