Artists working in the public realm make an extraordinary contribution to our experience of public life. Not only can they contribute to the physical fabric of the community, they can enhance links between people and places. 

The Mooch practice is a broad one, responding to each creative project in it's own, site specific, context.

Working alongside local authorities, private companies, arts and regeneration organisations, Mooch has been the creative force in many projects performing a variety of roles, ranging from team member in regeneration focussed landscape masterplans, to lead artist instigating public art installations from concept to delivery.

The work is intended to enhance the perception of an area in need of change and underpin its new found social and economic confidence. This can be via an aspirational hoarding, defining the quality of a future development or an iconic sculptural installation acting as a point of reference for new routes and spaces.

“Local people care enough to make a difference and Mooch has helped us to showcase this from a grassroots level. Local youth feel like superstars, and this art is one of the best ways to promote a legacy of positive youth culture in our area“  Shara Brice  - Ascension cheerleaders, London

We actively support the environmental principles of client organisations, working with appropriate suppliers where ever possible and encouraging recyclable and sustainable solutions.

We are aware of the corporate social responsibility objectives of many clients, using local skills and materials where possible. We are engaged in the debate to design out crime and understand the issues involved when working in challenged and deprived areas. Our unique skillsets allow us to evaluate each individual space in its broad context, view its impact on all users, be they permanent communities or transient visitors, and maximise its effect to create aspirational and inspiring spaces.

“Quality public art has played a key role in contributing to the sea-change in the South East and in demonstrating the role of art in society. PERFUGIUM MISERIS is an inspiring piece that invites the diverse and fluid audience of the harbour space to reflect on their surroundings, their history and what it might mean for their present.” Victoria Pomery - Director, Turner Contemporary Gallery, Margate.

Theresa Smith founded Mooch in 2002, is the Creative Director and Lead Consultant in all projects.   She has a broad range of skills under pinned by extensive training.  Decisions are made based on direct inspiration from the site and its context, deriving a sense of what is needed, missing or undervalued and building on this foundation stone. 

"Endeavoring to keep a sense of a piece of work being of its time, I also remain sensitive to the historical perspective and work to marry the two sometimes seemingly juxtaposed facets. When people see my work I want them to feel a connection, a sense that this has been made with them in mind and for them to enjoy.  The attention to detail and the materials selected are intended to convey a concern for the participant and their pleasure in interacting with the artwork, both physically and conceptually.”