Meet the People we Work With: Sepideh Shahgholi

Hi Sepideh! Tell us a bit about yourself, what you do and your role with Castlefield Gallery?

Hi! I’m Sepideh Shahgholi, a visual artist working mainly with mixed media. My practice focuses on painting, papier-mâché and photography, often exploring memory, identity and the experience of connecting with a new life as an immigrant. I joined Castlefield Gallery as a volunteer in June 2026, after being on the waiting list since September 2025. Before volunteering, I was also an Associate Member of the gallery, so becoming a volunteer felt like a natural next step for me.

What made you want to start volunteering with Castlefield Gallery?

I wanted to volunteer because I was curious to learn more about what happens behind the scenes of exhibitions, especially the installation process and how a show comes together. I’ve really enjoyed being part of that process and getting involved in different events and activities at the gallery.

I’m also interested in environmentally conscious ways of working, which connects with my own practice. I work with materials such as papier-mâché, so Castlefield’s focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility really attracted me. Being around people and projects that share these values is inspiring for me and gives me ideas for my own future work.

What keeps you engaged in the work you do?

Something I’m thinking about a lot right now is the deeper meaning of home and memory, and how memory works through free association. I’m not interested in simply recreating something that happened in the past, but in reimagining a memory as it changes over time and becomes mixed with later experiences. It can change again and again, and I think that distance and transformation are also part of the memory itself.

What are you currently reading?

I’m currently reading The Poetics of Space by Gaston Bachelard. I really love the way he explores the idea of home, not just as an architectural space, but as an emotional and imaginative one. The book brings back those mysterious childhood memories of hidden spaces, old cupboards, doors and attic stairs, and how the body, as much as the mind, can remember something as simple as touching the lock of an abandoned house.

I find it really beautiful how he turns these small, familiar experiences into questions about memory, imagination and home. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone interested in these ideas.

What’s a challenge you’ve grown into rather than overcome?

One challenge I’ve grown into since moving here has been finding artistic communities where I could connect, collaborate and feel like I belonged. Coming from a different country and cultural background, finding the right communities wasn’t always easy.

But finding my way into these spaces and becoming part of them has been really rewarding. I think when you’re genuinely interested in something, challenges can become easier, and sometimes even enjoyable. I’ve met new friends and found communities that I really enjoy being part of, where we can learn from each other and grow together.

What are you hoping to explore or develop next (either at Castlefield or in your own work)?

I’m currently developing a series of work that I find really inspiring, and I’m continuing to expand it by exploring new materials and perspectives. I’m excited to see where the series can go and how it can develop over time.

One of my dreams is to one day show my work at Castlefield Gallery. Being part of the gallery as a volunteer has already been such a valuable experience, so it would be really special to have the opportunity to show my own work there too.

A place that inspires you? Nature

Something you’re thinking about a lot right now? IRAN

A tool, habit or ritual you rely on? One thing that helps you keep going? If it’s a person, MY MOM 🙂 If it’s a thing, creativity and curiosity.