Co-founder of Joya: arte + ecología. Simon studied Fine Art BA (Hons) at Manchester University and Fine Art MA at The Royal Academy Schools in London. He is a fellow of the Royal Geographic Society (with IBG). He now teaches art and continues his own practice through the Joya: arte + ecología programme.

Joya: arte + ecología is a non profit arts organisation based at Cortijada Los Gázquez in the heart of the Parque Natural Sierra María Los Vélez in the north of the Provincia de Almería, Andalucía. Our aims are to:

Facilitate, through production and collaboration, contemporary art and artists whose work manifests a discourse with the environment and sustainability.

Explain, through contemporary art, abstract concepts such as climate change and the degradation of the environment.

Engage with the complexity of the rural situation in relation to land use and the value of marginalised ecosystems.

Promote sustainable adaptation to land use and water resources in a time of rapid change.

Redevelop the idea of culture within the context of environmental change.

To be the change we wish to see in the world then raise awareness of the ability to live in balance with nature by being an example of sustainable practice.

Create and encourage cultural activity within La Comarca de Los Vélez.

Celebrate the history and culture of Almería.

Bring attention to the potential of rural Spain.

Disseminate our activities to a global audience.

Operate beyond conventional arts organisations through our creative activities and engagement with other complementary disciplines.

Promote the work of artist’s concerned with the environment and sustainability. Particularly fostering young Andalucían, national, European and international artists.

Promote the work of ‘mid-life’ artists who have maintained a consistent professional practice in the field of environmentalism for many years.

Promote collaboration with other institutions, organisations and individuals within Europe who share our aims.