Develop your own profile, network, career, and/or business by joining us at The Arts and Culture Network as a full member. From just £10 per month. Cancel any time. Benefits are here . This profile is just one of them. Meet Shuyun Zi . In this interview, Mark invited Shuyun Zi to create her own fantasy cultural year from the answers to some easy questions where there are no wrong answers. Enjoy her journey below. Shuyun (Grace) Zi is a cultural projects professional who thrives at the intersection of arts, research and storytelling — the sort of person who can happily discuss cultural policy over coffee and then calmly organise an international exhibition before lunch. Working across project coordination, communications and research, Shuyun Zi brings structure to creative ideas and clarity to complex cultural narratives. An Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s scholar, Shuyun Zi specialises in Art and Cultural Management and holds a Master’s degree in Global Media Industries from King’s College London, alongside advanced studies in cultural economics, entrepreneurship and heritage management across leading European institutions. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Portuguese Language and Literature. Professionally, Shuyun Zi has worked on cultural heritage projects, academic research initiatives, exhibitions, film production and international programmes. A recent highlight includes serving as Cultural Projects Production Manager on a heritage-led proposal positioning the French city of Soissons as a future French Capital of Culture. As part of this project, she curated the exhibition “À Venir, Souvenir”, balancing historical sensitivity with forward-looking cultural imagination. Shuyun Zi’s experience spans research and programme coordination at The Class Foundation, videography for King’s College London, film production in China, and teaching and event support in Brazil. She is multilingual, working fluently in Mandarin, English and Portuguese, and is particularly skilled at navigating international environments where cultural nuance matters. Known for her strong organisational skills, calm professionalism and sharp aesthetic eye, Shuyun Zi is driven by a simple idea: culture works best when people feel connected to it — and to each other. Shuyun's Fantasy Cultural Year ... with a magic wand and time machine to hand. In a diverting interview, Mark created a fantasy cultural year for Shuyun and here is a summary ... Paris Vibes & Dreaming Big Shuyun Zi shares her favourite Parisian building: the Museum of Decorative Arts , overlooking the beautiful Tivoli Gardens . Picture a warm June evening, a pop-up café in the sunshine, an Aperol spritz in hand, jazz playing through headphones, and a book called Anthropologist by S.G. Savas on the table. Pure bliss. A Year of Creative Adventures Imagine this: a wealthy Parisian foundation loves her work on creative cities so much, they offer to fund a year of projects—including travel, events, and four more books. First stop: Paris , naturally. Then London , with a luxury loft overlooking Somerset House, dinners, dance performances, and concerts. Curating Experiences Music: She’d pick movie soundtracks for a full year—hello, Hans Zimmer, Ennio Morricone, John Williams! Dance: A mix of ballet and contemporary , featuring Matthew Bourne . Cuisine: Middle Eastern delights for dinner. Sport Performance: In Berlin, she’d watch ice skating , enjoying sport as art. Global Creativity Tour Next up: Berlin , then Lagos, Nigeria , where she explores booming entrepreneurship and digitally enhanced art galleries—VR stepping into 3D artworks. London Entertainment Week Monday: Go back in time to a concert (maybe Oasis for nostalgia). Tuesday: Theatre—Oscar Wilde over Shakespeare. Wednesday: Musical— Hamilton , live. Thursday: Ballet (Matthew Bourne’s famous Swan Lake ). Friday: Movie night at the IMAX—maybe a classic Hitchcock . Hero Lunch Finally, Shuyun Zi has lunch with her chosen hero Josephine Baker . Shuyun Zi on LinkedIn Shuyun Zi by email Would you like to be profiled and promoted this way? This is just one of several benefits of full membership from just £10 per month (€13/$13 ish) and you may cancel any time. Join us here . Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network Join us as a full member for "done for you" profile, network, career, and/or business development support for just £10 per month. Cancel any time. https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join Here are some of our full member testimonials: "Had to write and say a huge thank you for the networking sessions you are running. Met some great people today, thank you so much." "Great speed networking session today - I really enjoyed it and got some really relevant and valuable connections!" "I've just joined!! £10 a month for a 1:1 business growth session, free networking, and access to all the events (on top of everything else!)?! This is INSANE value for money Mark and I'm so grateful for everything you've done to build such a supportive network of likeminded creative professionals." Forthcoming free networking events Mark Walmsley FRSA AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com

Develop your own profile, network, career, and/or business by joining us at The Arts and Culture Network as a full member. From just £10 per month. Cancel any time. Benefits are here . This profile is just one of them. Meet Samantha Steele. In a recent follow-up interview, Mark, the founder of the Arts and Culture Network, caught up with full member Samatha Steele to discuss her recent news and accomplishments. Samantha shared that she recently gave a TEDx talk at TEDx Ladywood in Birmingham, titled "The Audio Diet," which discussed how the music and words we listen to can impact personal development. She emphasized her mission to bring this concept to young people through the "sonic shift" and provide them with the necessary toolkits. Sonic Shift: Sound Awareness Program Samantha discussed the Sonic Shift program, which aims to help people become more aware of how sound affects their daily lives. The program is structured around pillars like "S is for sound" and "H is for habit," offering tools for personal development without strict timelines. Samantha highlighted the importance of teaching students, particularly in secondary schools, to be mindful of how they engage with sound and music, emphasising the impact of short music clips on concentration and the value of joyful music. She also noted that not all students can identify songs that bring them joy, suggesting a need to encourage reflection on music's role in their lives. Power of Sound Selection Samantha discussed the acronym SHIFT, which stands for Sound Selection, Habit Hooks, Inner Influence, Flow Framework, and Transformation Tracks. She shared personal experiences of how audiobooks and podcasts, such as "Can't Hurt Me" by David Goggins, helped her rewire her mindset and achieve personal goals, including completing a half marathon and leading an orchestra for a Netflix promotion. Samantha emphasized the power of words and positive influences in shaping one's beliefs and capabilities. Journey to Purpose Through Books Samantha shared her personal journey of finding purpose and fulfillment through books and self-reflection, emphasizing the transformative impact of this approach on her life and her desire to help others find their own path. Mark acknowledged Samantha's contributions and expressed appreciation for her insights, comparing her approach to that of marketing philosopher Seth Godin. Watch it here: In the main interview, Mark invited Samatha Steele to create her own fantasy cultural year from the answers to some easy questions where there are no wrong answers. Enjoy her journey below. Samantha Steele’s journey in music began in Essex, where she attended Havering Music School. Learning both the violin and piano from the age of four, she developed a lifelong passion for music, nurtured by a diverse range of influences, from reggae and soul to orchestral and cinematic compositions. Her professional career took root in music education, where she dedicated 16 years as a secondary music teacher. In this role, she worked both collaboratively and independently to create enriching opportunities for students, including organising extracurricular activities that allowed them to participate in orchestral concerts and engage with professional musicians. Her teaching career also extended internationally, where she served as both a music educator and a CELTA-certified English teacher. In addition to teaching, Samantha has built an impressive portfolio as a musician, producer, and project manager. As a violinist in the London Contemporary Chamber Orchestra (LCCO), she remains deeply connected to orchestral music while simultaneously composing and producing her own works. Her compositions often blend elements of soul, orchestral arrangements, and cinematic depth, reflecting her broad musical influences. Samantha Steele's production work includes collaborations with independent artists, resulting in multiple music releases. Actively sharing her work on platforms like SoundCloud and Instagram under the name "I Am Lady Steele," she is also growing her presence on LinkedIn as a composer and producer. Currently, Samantha is expanding her career into project management, leveraging her extensive experience in education and music. She has obtained a Project Fundamentals Qualification and is furthering her expertise through PRINCE2 and Agile methodologies. Alongside her studies, Samantha plays a key role in the Woolwich Works Creative Club, where she provides administrative management and supports creative programming. As an engaged member of the Arts and Culture Network, Samantha is committed to fostering creative communities. Her contributions help sustain initiatives that support artists and musicians, reinforcing her dedication to the cultural sector. Looking forward, Samantha aims to integrate her background in teaching, music, and project management into a dynamic career that bridges creative education, music production, and arts administration. Her journey exemplifies adaptability, passion, and continuous artistic and professional growth. Samatha's Fantasy Cultural Year ... with a magic wand and time machine to hand. In an imaginative and engaging interview, Mark Walmsley guided Samantha Steele through the creation of her ideal fantasy cultural year. Through a series of thoughtful questions, Samantha’s dream year unfolded, blending music, art, literature, and travel into a rich tapestry of experiences. The journey began at the Southbank Centre’s Festival Hall in London, where Samantha envisioned herself on the fifth-floor terrace, sipping a Negroni while anticipating an evening concert. Accompanying her was "The 5 AM Club," a book that had significantly influenced her, inspiring an early morning routine that transformed her productivity and well-being. The fantasy escalated when Mark introduced an enticing but fictitious opportunity, a prestigious, well-funded research role sponsored by a London-based foundation. The project focused on exploring the impact of music education, particularly composition and improvisation, on children's creativity. The position came with a TED Talk, a university lecture tour, a book deal, and even the prospect of a television series documenting her findings. When asked where she would begin her research, Samantha ultimately chose Cusco, Peru, a city she holds dear. Mark set the scene of a grand townhouse overlooking Cusco’s vibrant cityscape, where she would reside in luxury. Upon her arrival, a private jet whisked her from Lima to Cusco, where she was warmly welcomed by local musicians and educators eager to collaborate. Her cultural itinerary was equally enriching. She attended a contemporary dance performance, reflecting her deep appreciation for ballet and orchestral music. For dinner, she indulged in a fusion of French and Argentinian cuisine, combining two of her favourite culinary styles. When it came to sports, Samantha’s passion for athletics led her to choose a stadium event, particularly captivated by the electrifying atmosphere of a 100-meter sprint. A visit to a digital art gallery in Lima presented a unique opportunity, stepping into the surreal world of Salvador Dalí through virtual reality. She recounted how Dalí’s work had captivated her since her twenties, sparking a discussion on how his art could be translated into music, potentially through a project involving multiple composers interpreting his paintings in distinct styles. Samantha’s week of cultural indulgence with Mark unfolded as follows: Monday:  A long-awaited concert by Amy Winehouse in an intimate Camden venue, fulfilling a missed opportunity from her past. Tuesday:  A night at the theatre watching Agatha Christie's timeless mystery, "The Mousetrap." Wednesday:  A Broadway or West End production of "Wicked," featuring its original cast. Thursday:  An opera performance of "La Bohème," despite her initial hesitations about the genre. Friday:  A film screening of "My Life Without Me," a poignant drama she highly recommended. As the dream year reached its finale, Mark invited Samantha to a hero’s lunch in Lima, where she could dine with any historical or cultural figure. After some reflection, she selected Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg, drawn to the beauty and emotional depth of his compositions. The interview concluded with Samantha reflecting on the experience, recognising how it had broadened her perspective and sparked new aspirations. Mark congratulated her on her recent professional endeavours and suggested a future follow-up to see how her real-life journey unfolds. This captivating and playful exercise provided a revealing glimpse into Samantha Steele’s artistic passions, intellectual pursuits, and the profound role of music, art, and education in her life. Samantha Steele on LinkedIn Samantha Steele by email Would you like to be interviewed and promoted in this way? This is just one of several benefits of full membership at just £10 per month (€12/$12) and you may cancel any time. Join us here . Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network Join us as a full member for "done for you" profile, network, career, and/or business development support for just £10 per month. Cancel any time. https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join Here are some of our full member testimonials: "Had to write and say a huge thank you for the networking sessions you are running. Met some great people today, thank you so much." "Great speed networking session today - I really enjoyed it and got some really relevant and valuable connections!" "I've just joined!! £10 a month for a 1:1 business growth session, free networking, and access to all the events (on top of everything else!)?! This is INSANE value for money Mark and I'm so grateful for everything you've done to build such a supportive network of likeminded creative professionals." Forthcoming free networking events Mark Walmsley FRSA AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com

Develop your own profile, network, career, and/or business by joining us at The Arts and Culture Network as a full member. From just £10 per month. Cancel any time. Benefits are here . This profile is just one of them. Meet Fiona Pacquette. In a recent follow-up interview, Mark, the founder of the Arts and Culture Network, caught up with full member Fiona Pacquette to discuss her recent news and accomplishments. There has been a slight rebrand from the East London School of Music to the East London School of Classical Music and it’s a milestone moment. What’s new? The school is celebrating 10 years of growth. Growth has been so strong that they’ve officially outgrown their main site. Sundays are now their busiest day, so the team is actively searching for a larger venue, ideally a school building that can meet their needs. The organ challenge 🎹 There’s an organ currently at their main site, but it’s not fully paid for yet. The school is in the middle of a fundraising push to complete the purchase, with a very patient organ builder waiting in the wings. New acheivements A Messiah performance on Saturday 13th December in North London . Senior students leapt at the chance to take part, and rehearsals had been underway since July. They performed alongside the Hax Philharmonia Chorus , which is also marking a big milestone. Double celebrations 🎉 10 years of the school 🎉 25 years of the choir Watch it here: In this interview, Mark invited Fiona Pacquette to create her own fantasy cultural year from the answers to some easy questions where there are no wrong answers. Enjoy her journey below. At the helm of the East London School of Music , Fiona Pacquette isn't chasing grandeur but building it quietly, one note at a time. A musician’s musician, Fiona doesn’t merely teach; she cultivates. Her work in piano, theory, and choral conducting isn’t flash and dazzle—it’s persistence, craft, and a deep belief that music, done well, can unlock something vital in the soul. Born the youngest of three, Fiona Dwanell Pacquette’s path began not in concert halls or conservatoires, but in a modest East London home filled with the sound of hymns. Her earliest mentor was her mother, Leone R. Pacquette, whose hands guided Fiona’s over piano keys before formal training ever began. It wasn't until her early teens, at Central Foundation Girls’ School, that piano lessons became structured. But the seeds were already deep in the soil. At fifteen, Fiona was playing cello for the London Schools Concert Orchestra and the London Schools Strings Orchestra—experiences that offered not only the thrill of performance, but a taste of the communal magic only orchestras can conjure. She stayed with both ensembles for two formative years. The real shift came when her father, recognising her growing seriousness, bought her first upright grand piano for her nineteenth birthday. That gesture opened the next chapter: Fiona enrolled at Colchester Institute School of Music, where she studied under Professor William Tamblyn. There, she earned her BA in Music, along with an MA in Liturgical Music and a Special Honours Study in composition. These years were not about accolades but immersion—absorbing technique, theory, and the art of shaping musical ideas into something that speaks. Her teaching journey began the way many meaningful things do—quietly and in community. As an apprentice to Mr John Prince at Hampstead Seventh-day Adventist Church, Fiona began instructing students in piano and music theory. She would go on to manage the John N Prince Music School for over two decades—an experience that became a bedrock for her style: generous, structured, and deeply student-focused. In 2015, she stepped into her current role as Music Director of the East London School of Music (ELSOM) . More than just a post, ELSOM is a platform—Fiona’s way of giving others what she once received. The school, open to learners from age five to adulthood, is rooted in accessibility, high standards, and the simple yet powerful belief that anyone can learn music if given the right tools. Fiona also directs the HACS Philharmonia Chorus and HACS Philharmonic Orchestra, continuing her mission of shaping ensembles where all feel they belong and all are expected to strive. Though accolades and recognition come, they’re not what moves her. What matters is watching someone pick up an instrument for the first time, and then, slowly, begin to speak fluently in the language of music. “I like to give others the same opportunities I had,” she says. “Playing an instrument and writing music are very useful skills to have.” In Fiona Pacquette’s world, music is not a rarefied art—it’s a calling, a craft, and sometimes, simply a hand held out in encouragement. Fiona Pacquette's Fantasy Cultural year + This or That game In the interview above Mark created Fiona's Fantasy Cultural Year from the answers to a few simple questions. There are no wrong answers ;-) Their conversation was filled with humour, anecdotes, and playful challenges. Mark proposed a year-long global tour for Fiona to save organ pipe organs, which would involve a Ted Talk, a TV series, a university lecture tour, and a book deal. Fiona agreed to start the tour in France. Mark also suggested that Fiona's musical listening be limited to Baroque music during the tour. Fiona agreed to this and Mark proposed that she be based in a loft apartment in Paris, with a view of the Sacre Coeur. Fiona chose to enjoy a range of cultural activities in this trip, including: A Diversity dance group performance Michelin-starred plant-based Chinese restaurant The world athletics championships in Paris A Van Gogh digital gallery Beyonce or Bob Marley concert A Shakespeare play, likely "Much Ado About Nothing" Fiona had the opportunity to invite anyone, living or not, to have lunch with her in Paris. She chose Ludovico Einaudi, a contemporary pianist and composer, and suggested that Mark invite Rachmaninoff, a famous composer and pianist. In the This or That game Mark presented Fiona with a series of options and she had to choose one quickly. Options included still or sparkling, mac or pc, car or motorcycle, tea or coffee, library or museum. Fiona on LinkedIn Email Fiona Would you like to be interviewed and promoted in this way? This is just one of several benefits of full membership at just £10 per month (€12/$12) and you may cancel any time. Join us here . Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network Join us as a full member for "done for you" profile, network, career, and/or business development support for just £10 per month. Cancel any time. https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join Here are some of our full member testimonials: "Had to write and say a huge thank you for the networking sessions you are running. Met some great people today, thank you so much." "Great speed networking session today - I really enjoyed it and got some really relevant and valuable connections!" "I've just joined!! £10 a month for a 1:1 business growth session, free networking, and access to all the events (on top of everything else!)?! This is INSANE value for money Mark and I'm so grateful for everything you've done to build such a supportive network of likeminded creative professionals." Forthcoming free networking events Mark Walmsley FRSA AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com

Develop your own profile, network, career, and/or business by joining us at The Arts and Culture Network as a full member. It's just £10 per month. Cancel any time. Benefits are here . This profile is just one of them. Meet Eric Hatch (Photographer and writer). With 50 years as a writer and over 25 as a fine-art photographer, Eric Hatch's work bridges the gap between text and image, bringing to life the stories, places, and people that shape our world. He is part documentarian and artist, capturing moments with an honesty that commands attention and invites introspection. In Mark and Eric's interview, many anecdotes were shared, Eric's fantasy cultural year was created and we also got a delve into Eric's super-passions. Early Life and Education: Building a Foundation of Perspective Eric’s creative journey began with a thirst for understanding and a sharp eye for detail. At Dartmouth College, he graduated with high honours in English, balancing academic achievement with extracurricular pursuits like skiing, outdoor adventures, and running the college radio news team. Following Dartmouth, Eric pursued a PhD in English at the University of Virginia, specialising in 19th and 20th century literature. His dissertation explored Henry James and the Aesthetic Movement, a fitting precursor to his future career as a chronicler of the human condition and its intersections with art and environment. The Writer: Crafting Stories That Matter Eric’s writing career took off in his twenties and has resulted in more than 100 published works, ranging from essays and articles to award-winning pieces that have earned him national recognition. His topics are as varied as his experiences, encompassing travel writing for AAA, explorations of societal challenges, and thought-provoking commentary on art and culture. His approach to writing mirrors his photography ... direct, impactful, and designed to make the audience see the world through a fresh lens. The Photographer: Seeing the World Differently Eric’s photographic work focuses on translating what he sees and feels into something tangible for his audience. His images are steeped in honesty, whether they capture the fragile balance of a retreating glacier or the grit and humanity of addiction. For landscapes, Eric’s work is a dialogue between geology and emotion, while his architectural photography blends precision with a sensitivity to a building’s spirit. One of his most impactful collections, “Hard Times for These Times,”  uses post-industrial architecture to reflect the mood of a nation grappling with economic and cultural shifts. The project, consisting of 17 prints on metal, has been displayed at Ohio’s Middletown Arts Center and is available for exhibitions across the United States. Faces of Addiction: Humanity in Focus Eric’s most deeply personal project, “ Faces of Addiction ,”  confronts one of society’s most pressing issues: addiction. Through 50 black-and-white portraits and accompanying stories, the series challenges audiences to look beyond the stigma and see the individual. These portraits are not just images; they are conversations, encouraging empathy and understanding. The project has had significant reach, with ten pieces entering the permanent collection at the Hood Museum of Art. The collection has been featured in galleries and supported by notable figures such as Senator Rob Portman and Governor Mike DeWine of Ohio. Eric’s goal for “Faces of Addiction”  extends beyond art. He aims to use the collection as a tool for education, prevention, and recovery, creating materials that can reach thousands of people affected by addiction. Glaciers in Retreat: A Call to Action Eric’s latest project, “ Glaciers in Retreat, ”  captures the visible evidence of climate change. By focusing on the imperceptible yet undeniable shifts in the Earth’s glaciers, he translates slow geological processes into images that demand attention. This collection has already been featured in exhibitions, including a recent showing in Cincinnati, and is designed for large-scale public displays in museums and corporate spaces. A Life Lived with Purpose Eric’s work isn’t just about capturing moments; it’s about making those moments count. Whether photographing the stark beauty of the Arctic Circle, the decaying buildings of post-industrial America, or the faces of individuals battling addiction, Eric’s art serves a greater purpose. His lens is a tool for connection, advocacy, and change. Collaborations and Opportunities Eric Hatch custom prints his work, offering collectors, curators, architects, and corporate designers access to one-of-a-kind pieces. He is eager to connect with museum professionals and exhibition spaces interested in showcasing projects like “Glaciers in Retreat”  or “Faces of Addiction.” With a commitment to environmentalism and social justice, Eric continues to push the boundaries of what photography and writing can achieve, using his talents to challenge perceptions and inspire action. If you’re ready to collaborate, Eric is always ready to have the conversation. Watch our interview on Spotify: You can find Eric Hatch on LinkedIn here. Follow him on X here , Instagram here . All purple coloured words are links to socials and websites. Would you like to be interviewed and promoted in this way? This is just one of several benefits of full membership at just £10 per month (€12/$12) and you may cancel any time. Join us here . Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network Join us as a full member for "done for you" profile, network, career, and/or business development support for just £10 per month. Cancel any time. https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join Here are some of our full member testimonials: "Had to write and say a huge thank you for the networking sessions you are running. Met some great people today, thank you so much." "Great speed networking session today - I really enjoyed it and got some really relevant and valuable connections!" "I've just joined!! £10 a month for a 1:1 business growth session, free networking, and access to all the events (on top of everything else!)?! This is INSANE value for money Mark and I'm so grateful for everything you've done to build such a supportive network of likeminded creative professionals." Forthcoming free networking events Mark Walmsley FRSA AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com

Develop your own profile, network, career, and/or business by joining us at The Arts and Culture Network as a full member. From just £10 per month. Cancel any time. Benefits are here . This profile is just one of them. Meet Aretha George . In this interview, Mark invited Aretha George to create her own fantasy cultural year from the answers to some easy questions where there are no wrong answers. Enjoy her journey below. Aretha George is a coach, consultant and culture-shifting human extraordinaire with a knack for turning messy thinking into strategic insight and joyful action. She is currently Head of Culture at the London Borough of Hounslow. Born and raised in East London to Caribbean parents, Aretha once convinced her family that Fine Art was a “sensible career choice” — and then proved it by doing just that, completing both a BA (Hons) in Fine Art and an MA in Arts Policy and Management. For over 25 years, Aretha threw herself into the arts, heritage and culture sectors — working with festivals, museums, universities, national strategic bodies, charities and local authorities — basically anywhere that needed a bit of heart, a dash of strategy and a generous dose of common sense. Some people don’t choose coaching — coaching chooses them . That was certainly the case for Aretha, who found that helping others see beyond their own limitations was not just sensible, but deeply satisfying. In 2022 she completed an intensive year-long Coaches Training Programme with Accomplishment Coaching and became a certified coach with the International Coaching Federation (ICF) — which basically means she’s properly credentialed to help people unlock their potential without resorting to clichés about “finding your inner unicorn”. Aretha’s approach is warm, grounded and honest, with a touch of wry humour — because being serious about growth doesn’t mean you can’t laugh at how far you’ve come (or how convoluted the starting line looked). She also brings her expertise to organisational consultancy, helping teams embed equitable practice, elevate lesser-heard voices and engage communities with clarity and courage. Beyond the professional accolades, Aretha is someone who knows success isn’t a trophy — it’s the number of times you help someone see they really can . Whether with individuals looking to grow, or organisations striving to be better, Aretha George creates space for transformation — with humour, insight and a clear sense of purpose. Aretha's Fantasy Cultural Year ... with a magic wand and time machine to hand. Aretha George’s Fantasy Cultural Year  begins in a place where history, beauty, spirituality and complexity meet: the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem . Seated at a pop-up café at the foot of the steps at 6pm in warm evening light , Aretha is taking it all in with a large glass of Malbec  beside her and Douglas Adams’ The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy  on the table — chosen for its joy, humour, and that wonderfully liberating “42” perspective on life. From there, a fictirious international family foundation  offers her an extraordinary commission: a year of first-class travel  to explore where arts and culture can create the biggest opportunities for social change  — complete with a book deal, TV series, TED Talk, and global lecture tour waiting at the end. Aretha decides to start where innovation and influence are abundant, but gaps still remain: New York City . On the flight, she’s given a musical challenge: only one genre for the entire year. Aretha chooses the Stax/Memphis soul-blues-funk sound  — rich, varied, and full of feeling — evoking artists like Otis Redding  and The Staple Singers . In New York, she’s welcomed by artists, change-makers and students, and her first cultural highlight is pure energy: a hip-hop and breakdancing battle/competition  at world-championship level, celebrating the artistry and athleticism of the form. Dinner afterwards is pure comfort: Italian cuisine , ideally a beautifully made lasagna  (no pork), steaming and indulgent. Next, she heads to Dominica , her parents’ homeland — a place she feels holds real potential for positive change. (And she later corrects the recording: the capital is Roseau .) It’s Sports Day when she arrives, and Aretha’s perfect two-hour spectacle is athletics  — a nod to her own background competing as a thrower  (including discus and shot put , and occasionally the relay), and her love of the skill, variety, and shared drama of track and field. From the Caribbean to North Africa, the journey continues to Cairo, Egypt , where Aretha visits a digitally enhanced gallery offering a fully immersive VR experience of an artist’s work . Her choice is Elizabeth Catlett , whose striking prints exploring the Black experience have recently captivated Aretha as she returns to making prints herself. In this imagined gallery, she gets to step inside Catlett’s scenes and meet the people and stories her work honours. Finally, the time machine whisks her back to London  for a week of cultural evenings with Mark. For a “back in time” music moment, her choice is immediate and heartfelt: Prince  — the concert she never got to see before he died. For theatre, she goes classic and clever: Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap  for the pure pleasure of a well-made whodunnit. For musical theatre, the itinerary becomes a double bill: The Lion King  for its theatrical magic and spectacle, and Hamilton  for its impact and brilliance. At the Royal Opera House, Aretha chooses Orpheus and Eurydice  — for the score and the enduring power of the story. And for a film on the IMAX screen, she opts for warmth over adrenaline: All About Eve , black-and-white elegance on a big screen as the ultimate comfort watch. Before she heads off to complete the rest of her year-long exploration of cultural change, she’s given a “hero lunch” in London with anyone, living or not. Aretha invites Maya Angelou  — for wisdom, depth, and the kind of conversation that leaves you thinking (and feeling) differently long after the plates are cleared. Put together, Aretha’s Fantasy Cultural Year is a portrait of someone drawn to story, soul, wit, and transformation : grounded in listening and facilitation, inspired by culture as a force for connection, and always looking for the places where creativity can genuinely shift lives. Aretha on LinkedIn Aretha' s website Aretha on Instagram Aretha on Facebook Aretha by email Would you like to be profiled and promoted this way? This is just one of several benefits of full membership from just £10 per month (€13/$13 ish) and you may cancel any time. Join us here . Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network Join us as a full member for "done for you" profile, network, career, and/or business development support for just £10 per month. Cancel any time. https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join Here are some of our full member testimonials: "Had to write and say a huge thank you for the networking sessions you are running. Met some great people today, thank you so much." "Great speed networking session today - I really enjoyed it and got some really relevant and valuable connections!" "I've just joined!! £10 a month for a 1:1 business growth session, free networking, and access to all the events (on top of everything else!)?! This is INSANE value for money Mark and I'm so grateful for everything you've done to build such a supportive network of likeminded creative professionals." Forthcoming free networking events Mark Walmsley FRSA AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com

Develop your own profile, network, career, and/or business by joining us at The Arts and Culture Network as a full member. From just £10 per month. Cancel any time. Benefits are here . This profile is just one of them. Meet Jennifer S. Wilkov In this interview, Mark invited Jennifer Wilkov to create her own fantasy cultural year from the answers to some easy questions where there are no wrong answers. Enjoy her journey below. Jennifer S. Wilkov is a multi #1 international best-selling award-winning author, keynote speaker, media personality, and the founder of Your Book Is Your Hook! , a creative consulting and publishing platform that transforms writers into visible, marketable authors and thought leaders. With nearly two decades in the writing, publishing and creative industries, Jennifer combines a sharp strategic mind with a warm and witty approach to demystify what often feels like a labyrinthine world of books, scripts, platform building and publication. As the renowned Literary Agent Matchmaker™ , Jennifer S. Wilkov guides first-time writers and seasoned authors through everything from crafting compelling manuscripts and pitch decks to building unforgettable personal platforms that attract agents, publishers, Hollywood producers and media attention. Her signature “From Thought to Sales in 90 Days™” process is as elegant as it is effective, catapulting aspiring authors from idea to income. She hosts the popular podcast Your Book Is Your Hook! , where she shares insider insights, candid conversations with industry professionals and practical advice that thousands of authors tune into weekly. Beyond the mic, Jennifer has spoken at major events including the Writers Guild of America East and Book Expo America, and has been quoted and published in national magazines and award-winning publications. Jennifer’s background as an award-winning freelance writer , creative consultant, motivational speaker and transformational coach allows her to wear many hats—often simultaneously and sometimes with a mischievous grin. She brings strategic clarity and infectious enthusiasm to helping writers not just publish a book, but turn it into a thriving business. Her career has taken her from launching books in Barnes & Noble to engaging audiences around the world, always with the same mission: to help authors write boldly, publish wisely and live the compelling, creative life they imagined. Jennifer's Fantasy Cultural Year ... with a magic wand and time machine to hand. Favourite Places & New York Daydreams Jennifer named the New York Marriott Marquis as her favourite building, which led Mark to guide her into a vivid scene: sitting at a pavement café in New York City at 6pm on a warm June evening. Jennifer noted that the city often stays hot well into late September and shared her go-to drink of choice — a refreshing club soda with cranberry and lime, as she doesn’t drink alcohol. Books, Bravery & a Global Writing Opportunity Jennifer spoke about Daring Greatly by Brené Brown, her favourite book and one she regularly recommends to clients and uses in her internship programme. Mark then revealed an exciting proposal from a wealthy - fictitious - New York–based family foundation that supports literary arts. The year-long opportunity would see Jennifer travelling the English-speaking world to discover emerging writing talent, create a global league table of excellence, and develop the work into a TED Talk, TV series, and book deal. The role comes with a generous fee, full expenses, and a personal assistant to run her business while she’s away — an idea that immediately sparked her interest. Fantasy Travel: Paris & London The conversation drifted into fantasy travel, with Jennifer imagining time in Paris enjoying French food and watching a dance performance by her cousin Daniel Gortzman’s dance company. In London, her ideal experience was watching tennis from baseline seats. A Perfect Week of London Culture Together, Jennifer and Mark mapped out a dream week in London, filled with visits to a digitally enhanced art gallery, Shakespeare at the Globe, a West End musical, and evenings of opera and cinema. They shared music memories too — Jennifer recalled seeing The Who live, while Mark talked about his wish to see Bob Marley. A shared love of Love Actually rounded out the conversation with laughter and film trivia. The Ultimate Surprise To cap it all off, Mark introduced the idea of a “hero day”: a two-hour lunch with Steven Spielberg at a French restaurant in London — a fitting finale to a conversation full of imagination and possibility. Jennifer on LinkedIn Your Book is Your Hook website Jennnifer's website Jennifer's Instagram Jennifer on Facebook Jennifer by email Would you like to be profiled and promoted this way? This is just one of several benefits of full membership from just £10 per month (€13/$13 ish) and you may cancel any time. Join us here . Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network Join us as a full member for "done for you" profile, network, career, and/or business development support for just £10 per month. Cancel any time. https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join Here are some of our full member testimonials: "Had to write and say a huge thank you for the networking sessions you are running. Met some great people today, thank you so much." "Great speed networking session today - I really enjoyed it and got some really relevant and valuable connections!" "I've just joined!! £10 a month for a 1:1 business growth session, free networking, and access to all the events (on top of everything else!)?! This is INSANE value for money Mark and I'm so grateful for everything you've done to build such a supportive network of likeminded creative professionals." Forthcoming free networking events Mark Walmsley FRSA AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com

Develop your own profile, network, career, and/or business by joining us at The Arts and Culture Network as a full member. From just £10 per month. Cancel any time. Benefits are here . This profile is just one of them. Meet Miriam Hartnell . In this interview, Mark invited Miriam Hartnell to create her own fantasy cultural year from the answers to some easy questions where there are no wrong answers. Enjoy her journey below. Miriam Hartnell is a contemporary visual artist, transformational guide and self-styled alchemist of colour whose work invites audiences to feel deeply, evolve boldly and laugh a little at life’s cosmic punchlines. Best known under the creative alias Tiferet , Miriam’s art blends immersive narrative with audacious colour and layered symbolism, offering what she cheekily calls “portals of transformation” rather than mere paintings. Hailing from the United Kingdom, Miriam’s practice is far from your typical art-for-art’s-sake experience. Each piece is designed to stir buried emotions, spark self-realisation and anchor abundance and love into the everyday lives of those who collect it. Her canvases feel like conversations with your subconscious—sometimes wise, often playful, and occasionally cheeky (she insists swans have excellent life advice). Her signature style fuses semi-abstract expressionism with contemporary narrative energy, resulting in striking works like Lakebound and Tiny Dancers that balance serenity with motion and introspection with imagination. Miriam also takes her creative identity seriously enough to have given it a mystic twist: “Tiferet” evokes balance, splendour and the middle path of artistic transformation, and her online presence radiates warmth, colour and that delightful feeling. Her journey weaves together spirit, story and paint in a way that’s as accessible as it is evocative. Miriam's Fantasy Cultural Year ... with a magic wand and time machine to hand. Mark responded with a tantalising proposal: a year-long, family-foundation-funded research project , fully first class, with Miriam choosing what music to only be able to listen to for that year. Miriam made her stance clear: she prefers classical pieces over songs with lyrics. She also mentioned wanting to visit Sicily —the motivation was a little mysterious, but the interest was definite. Sports, concerts & time travel The conversation drifted into sports and live events, with Mark playfully offering to “take Miriam back in time” to watch everything from elegant waltz dancers to historic tennis matches. Miriam revealed she enjoys watching tennis from right by the net , saying it’s the players’ personalities that really draw her in. What’s next on the agenda? Mark talked about taking Miriam back to London , with plans for a rock or pop concert on Monday . They also tossed around other cultural ideas—movie concerts, Broadway or West End musicals, and music by the greats like Puccini, Mozart, and Wagner . A touch of magic The chat wrapped up with some imaginative detours, including Ian McKellen’s fireplace and Glamdring , the legendary sword from The Hobbit —adding a dash of fantasy to an already eclectic conversation. Miriam on LinkedIn Miriam' s website Miriam on Instagram Miriam by email Would you like to be profiled and promoted this way? This is just one of several benefits of full membership from just £10 per month (€13/$13 ish) and you may cancel any time. Join us here . Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network Join us as a full member for "done for you" profile, network, career, and/or business development support for just £10 per month. Cancel any time. https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join Here are some of our full member testimonials: "Had to write and say a huge thank you for the networking sessions you are running. Met some great people today, thank you so much." "Great speed networking session today - I really enjoyed it and got some really relevant and valuable connections!" "I've just joined!! £10 a month for a 1:1 business growth session, free networking, and access to all the events (on top of everything else!)?! This is INSANE value for money Mark and I'm so grateful for everything you've done to build such a supportive network of likeminded creative professionals." Forthcoming free networking events Mark Walmsley FRSA AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com

Develop your own profile, network, career, and/or business by joining us at The Arts and Culture Network as a full member. It's just £10 per month. Cancel any time. Benefits are here . On 18th December 2025, best-selling author Sam Conniff gave us a fascinating 10-minute talk on the link between uncertainty and creativity. “Thank you so much for this amazing session. I’ve just joined as a full member! Thank you again Sam for such an inspiring talk. Merry Christmas all !!” (Simona Gorin) “Thanks for a fantastic introduction to your work Sam. I’m purchasing the book for sure!” (Oli Cohen) “Wonderful presentation and meeting. Thank you, Mark and Sam!" (Rahti Gorfien) “I’ve preordered the book Sam.” (Katie Rose) “Thank you so much! I look forward to reading the book.” (Nikki Reimer) “Great talk Sam.” (Colin David Reese) Watch Sam's 10-minute talk here: Sam's book, The Uncertainty Toolkit is published on 1st January 2026. The Uncertainty Toolkit by Sam Conniff  (with Katherine Templar Lewis) is an evidence-based self-help guide on how to live better with uncertainty rather than being paralysed by it. The book draws on the world’s most extensive study into “uncertainty tolerance” (conducted with researchers from University College London) to explain the science of how people respond to the unknown and how that response can be improved. Using insights from both cutting-edge research and real stories from “uncertainty experts” — such as former gang leaders, addicts, refugees and hostages who have thrived in extreme ambiguity — the authors provide practical tools, exercises and a structured blueprint for turning unpredictability into personal and professional growth. By building greater tolerance for uncertainty, readers learn to feel calmer, worry less, make better decisions and deepen their confidence and connection with others in a rapidly changing world. Join the Arts and Culture Network as a full member for "done for you" profile, network, career, and/or business development support for just £10 per month. Cancel any time. https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join Here are some of our full member testimonials: "Had to write and say a huge thank you for the networking sessions you are running. Met some great people today, thank you so much." "Great speed networking session today - I really enjoyed it and got some really relevant and valuable connections!" "I've just joined!! £10 a month for a 1:1 business growth session, free networking, and access to all the events (on top of everything else!)?! This is INSANE value for money Mark and I'm so grateful for everything you've done to build such a supportive network of likeminded creative professionals." Forthcoming free networking events Mark Walmsley FRSA AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com

Develop your own profile, network, career, and/or business by joining us at The Arts and Culture Network as a full member. It's just £10 per month. Cancel any time. Benefits are here . I host a free 30-minute arts and culture speed networking session on ZOOM every Tuesday at 6pm UK time. Everyone gets to introduce themselves briefly and we record the speed introductions which you can watch below. If you hear from someone you'd like to meet or have a conversation with, check the chat file below for contact details. Join a future event here . Event chat file: Join the Arts and Culture Network as a full member for "done for you" profile, network, career, and/or business development support for just £10 per month. Cancel any time. https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join Here are some of our full member testimonials: "Had to write and say a huge thank you for the networking sessions you are running. Met some great people today, thank you so much." "Great speed networking session today - I really enjoyed it and got some really relevant and valuable connections!" "I've just joined!! £10 a month for a 1:1 business growth session, free networking, and access to all the events (on top of everything else!)?! This is INSANE value for money Mark and I'm so grateful for everything you've done to build such a supportive network of likeminded creative professionals." Forthcoming free networking events Mark Walmsley FRSA AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com

Develop your own profile, network, career, and/or business by joining us at The Arts and Culture Network as a full member. From just £10 per month. Cancel any time. Benefits are here . This profile is just one of them. Meet Aaron Shrimpton . In this interview, Mark invited Aaron Shrimpton to create his own fantasy cultural year from the answers to some easy questions where there are no wrong answers. Enjoy his journey below. Aaron Shrimpton is a BAFTA-winning filmmaker, director, creative producer and editor whose work lives at the intersection of art, emotion and visual storytelling. As the founder and creative lead of New Waverley Studios , Aaron has spent over 15 years turning ideas into striking cinematic content that connects with audiences and clients alike. From compelling branded campaigns and corporate films to documentary storytelling and community-focused projects, his body of work reflects a rare mix of artistic flair, technical craft and human insight. Aaron’s journey in visual storytelling began with a 1st Class Honours degree in Fine Art Photography, grounding his creative vision in both conceptual depth and aesthetic precision. Over the years, he has brought this vision to life in collaborations with a remarkable range of cultural figures and organisations, including Ai Weiwei, Channel 4, The Guardian, Fatboy Slim, Levi’s, Children in Need and Vivobarefoot. His films are known for their clarity, emotional richness and visual resonance — qualities that earned him a BAFTA and numerous festival screenings worldwide. At the heart of Aaron’s approach is a belief that great filmmaking isn’t just about capturing beautiful frames — it’s about telling stories that matter and revealing the human moments underneath. Whether he’s directing, self-shooting or shaping a narrative in the edit, Aaron brings curiosity, warmth and a steady dose of professionalism to every project. From rural landscapes and intimate personal portraits to cinematic branded content, his work refuses to sit still — much like the man himself. Aaron’s short films and documentary pieces have found international audiences, with selections at cultural festivals and screenings that celebrate both cinematic craft and community voice. Beyond commercial and branded work, he champions creative initiatives that amplify unheard perspectives and foster artistic engagement. Collaborations with arts collectives and charity partners demonstrate his commitment to using visual media as a force for connection and social conversation. At New Waverley Studios, Aaron leads with a creative spirit that is at once thoughtful and playful, capable of turning a simple brief into an expressive visual experience. His filmmaking is grounded in collaboration, rooted in authenticity and fuelled by a deep belief that every project — no matter how big or small — has the potential to move hearts, shift perspectives and linger in the viewer’s mind long after the final frame. Aaron's Fantasy Cultural Year ... with a magic wand and time machine to hand. Mark and Aaron kicked things off chatting about Aaron’s favourite building: Brookhouse in Basildon. He loves its brutalist charm. Together, they imagined a future where Brookhouse is refurbished, buzzing with life — Aaron perched inside with a Guinness Zero, reading a Bill Viola book he stumbled upon at the Royal Academy — something that genuinely shifted his worldview and nudged him towards Eastern philosophy and meditation. 🎬 A Global Short-Filmmaking Quest Aaron's Fantasy Cultural Year is to explore the best practices in short filmmaking worldwide. Everything covered — first-class travel, hotels, the lot. Beijing would be the first stop, a place Aaron once wanted to visit but couldn’t. The twist? He’d have to soundtrack the entire year with minimal electronic music. 🏃‍♂️📊 Speed, Dance & Bolt They drifted into a fun hypothetical: comparing the pace of different sports. Aaron fancied watching breakdancing and a 200-metre sprint, while Mark noted how tricky it is to compare speeds across distances. Cue a brief Usain Bolt tangent and the idea of “sustainable speed”. 🎭 A Cultural Year-dream in Scotland To finish, they imagined a fantasy cultural itinerary across London and Edinburgh — VR art galleries, concerts, theatre, opera, even a film screening. Aaron leaned towards a Tom Waits gig and a fresh take on Othello . Aaron on LinkedIn New Waverley Studios website New Waverley Studios Instagram Aaron's Instagram Aaron on Facebook Aaron by email Would you like to be profiled and promoted this way? This is just one of several benefits of full membership from just £10 per month (€13/$13 ish) and you may cancel any time. Join us here . Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network Join us as a full member for "done for you" profile, network, career, and/or business development support for just £10 per month. Cancel any time. https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join Here are some of our full member testimonials: "Had to write and say a huge thank you for the networking sessions you are running. Met some great people today, thank you so much." "Great speed networking session today - I really enjoyed it and got some really relevant and valuable connections!" "I've just joined!! £10 a month for a 1:1 business growth session, free networking, and access to all the events (on top of everything else!)?! This is INSANE value for money Mark and I'm so grateful for everything you've done to build such a supportive network of likeminded creative professionals." Forthcoming free networking events Mark Walmsley FRSA AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com