Amanda Burton

Amanda was born in 1971 in the tropical outskirts of Kuala Lumpur Malaysia. The warm climate and countless hours spent reveling in nature during her early years left an indelible mark on her, significantly influencing her future artistic work and professional career. 

1981 marked a significant shift as the family located to the UK along with pressure and aspirations from her parents that she pursue a career in medicine or science. It was the conventional path taken by her family, who were engineers, researchers, and doctors. However, during her time at Clifton College Bristol, she discovered a deep-seated love for art. She seized every opportunity to practice drawing and painting by attending extra-curricular classes to no avail or encouragement from her parents. Subsequently, in 1990, she pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry at Leeds University with the idea of moving into Forensics. 

Art remained in Amanda's life, initially as a leisurely pursuit. However, it wasn't long before she found herself involved in a project focused on arts and mental health, Inkwell Arts. In her role as Arts Development Worker, Amanda was instrumental in shaping and growing the service from the project’s beginnings. It soon grew to become a thriving and award-winning Community Art Centre in the North of England. The many years she devoted here also allowed her artistic skills to thrive and flourish, it also opened up opportunities to lead and design large scale projects making installations for the city’s impressive Light Night Event. 

Her artistry soon developed into a multi-faceted approach, and in 2003 her proficiency in copper wire jewellery helped her designs onto the pages of Vogue Magazine. Her work has also been showcased nationwide in jewellery crafting publications and exhibitions. 

Amanda is now a Director of Northlight Arts Centre where she has an art studio but also an exciting opportunity to establish a new and vibrant art centre for the people of Leeds to explore their own creativity, improve their wellbeing and build solid relationships with their community.