Volunteer Spotlight: Dalia ElGhazawy

Posted on 19 July 2023

This month we have asked Volunteer Dalia ElGhazawy to contribute to our Volunteer Spotlight series where we are asking volunteers to share their experience with us.

Thank you to our fabulous volunteers for their amazing work.

Hi Dalia! Tell us a little about yourself. How long have you been volunteering with Castlefield Gallery?

I am a visual artist from Cairo, Egypt and I have been volunteering with Castlefield Gallery since December 2022. I relocated to Manchester last year after completing my BA Fine Art degree at Cardiff Metropolitan University. I chose Manchester as I was interested in exploring the grand art scene within the city. 

What made you want to volunteer here?

I wanted to meet like-minded people, make connections, become more aware of the issues affecting the art scene in Manchester, and actively participate in it. Additionally, Castlefield Gallery has a strong reputation among professional artists and art students in Manchester, which further encouraged me to be part of Castlefield Gallery.

What’s your favourite thing about volunteering at Castlefield Gallery?

Castlefield Gallery is a place with a lot to offer. Whenever engaging with the gallery, I’m given the opportunity to learn something new as an artist and make valuable connections. I also appreciate the inclusive community that Castlefield Gallery fosters, where diversity is celebrated, and everyone has the space to share their unique perspectives. Whether through volunteering or attending various gallery events, I am consistently impressed by the diverse backgrounds and ages of the people I encounter. As an artist, I have had the chance to meet fellow artists and curators, leading to exciting artistic collaborations. However, Castlefield Gallery goes beyond catering solely to artists; it is a place where everyone can feel a sense of belonging within the arts and culture community.

What would you say to someone who’s thinking of volunteering with Castlefield Gallery?

Wherever your interests lie, being part of an organisation like Castlefield Gallery is truly worthwhile. You don’t need to be an artist; simply having an interest is more than enough to become a valued member of this welcoming community. The gallery is always full of excitement, and each shift offers unique and engaging conversations with a diverse range of people. Castlefield Gallery also provides support for your own tasks during your shifts, offering a motivating space where you can immerse yourself in gallery activities whilst also being productive. I can assure you that by volunteering with Castlefield Gallery, you’ll experience even more benefits than you could have ever imagined.

Learn more about our volunteering programme here