Imagine This asks the listener to consider life in a system that expects neurodivergent people to conform rather than embrace their individuality. Written by Artemis Smyth Fuentes, the youngest voice on Richard Clements’ Storymakers album, the piece explores the struggles of navigating an education system at odds with a mind that works differently.

Brilliantly brought to life by stop-motion animator Faye Isherwood-Wallace, the animation transforms the narrative into a sensory and tactile kaleidoscope, taking us from the confines of the classroom to an optimism of spinning planets and future possibility.

Richard Clements reflects: “It always felt to me that the world of animation would complement Artemis’ words perfectly. Through Northern Ireland Screen, I contacted the brilliant young stop-motion animator Faye Isherwood-Wallace. Faye works with materials that make you feel you can reach into the screen and touch them.”

Faye shares her perspective: “The narrator’s words deeply resonated with me. I was particularly drawn to ‘Step into my mind, there are colours there you won’t believe’ – a beautiful sentence highlighting the uniqueness and potential overlooked by an unsuitable environment. This project presented many opportunities to explore emotion through puppetry, texture, and atmosphere.”

Through its kaleidoscopic visuals, pulsing music and Smyth Fuentes’ evocative narration, Imagine This reminds us of a simple but profound truth: “Everyone wants to smile.” 

Storyteller - Artemis Smyth Fuentes
Music & Sound Design - Richard Clements
Animation - Faye Isherwood-Wallace

• StoryMakers Event
• Storymakers Album
• Richard Clements
• Faye Isherwood-Wallace