John Cockram has a background in painting with work in collections in the UK and abroad. Current work incorporates the use of found messages and text, re-used to create new meaning. John also has a strong interest in socially engaged practice and works with a number of artists and arts organisations in an international context. This activity informs both his published writing and his work as lecturer on the 'Arts in Health' programme at University of East London and also its Fine Art Student Residency Programme. His collaborative involvement with many agencies in and around East London has led to numerous workshop and exhibition programmes including those within education, health and the prison service. He has an interest in Fine Art educational strategies, which formed the basis of his PhD study – exploring Fine Art pedagogy in light of student residencies within the community. Post-doctoral research has seen his higher education work underpinned by increasing involvement in community based participatory arts projects, often around issues of regeneration.