I plan to tackle the 300 mile London to Paris bike ride this April 2015, raising money for the leading disability arts charity Shape Arts, which has played a vital role in my development as a visual artist.

After graduating in 1999 from Wolverhampton School of Art and Design I moved to London to begin my artistic career. Through word of mouth I was told about Shape Arts, an organisation that supports Deaf and disabled artists so being a Deaf visual artist I approached them. Without their support and access I would not be where I am today. It is because of this I want to support Shape so they are able to do the same for future generations of artists.

In my career I have faced barriers and a lack of access such as the provision of a British Sign language (BSL) interpreter for art related activities in the early years. It is vitally important that Deaf and disabled artists are treated equally and given the same opportunities to develop their artistic practice.

Please visit www.shapearts.org.uk to read about their work, but I'd like to highlight one thing inparticular.

In supporting disabled artists Shape runs an annual bursary scheme in memory of sculptor Adam Reynolds. One disabled artist receives £5,000 and a three month residency at a UK gallery.

Shape is currently participating in a matched giving initiative from Arts Council England, Catalyst Arts, where for every £1.50 raised Shape will receive an extra £1.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page, I'd be ever so grateful if you were able to sponsor me.