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 Karen Troussier (artist and disinformation campaigner) In a recent session, I had the pleasure of interviewing Karen Troussier , an artist and disinformation campaigner to exposing fake news and tackling online impersonation. Karen’s commitment to rooting out misinformation is inspiring, and she exemplifies the essential role members like her play in maintaining a democratic and independent organisation, one free from corporate influence and driven by the values of its community. During our conversation, I invited Karen to imagine her fantasy cultural year, a playful exercise filled with surprises, personal anecdotes, and laughs along the way. Karen shared her journey from theatre to activism, describing how her background in the arts equipped her to navigate diverse environments. In one unique job with a diamond company, her theatre training even inspired her to create a fictional persona for the role. Today, her work centres on exposing fake information, especially on social media, where she regularly encounters fake celebrity accounts designed to mislead. Although Karen has made progress in reporting these accounts, she spoke about the ongoing need for vigilance and more resources, particularly skilled videographers who could help her broaden her reach. Her goal is to increase awareness around the dangers of misinformation in today’s society. Karen and I discussed the broader challenges of combating conspiracy theories and the impact misinformation has on public trust and cultural narratives. Candidly, she recounted her experiences debunking conspiracy theories linked to high-profile events and individuals. She also shared her collaborations with renowned doctors and researchers in France who support her mission, underscoring the widespread professional recognition of this urgent work. As our conversation turned lighter, I encouraged Karen to envision her ideal cultural itinerary for the year ahead. This hypothetical adventure included a prestigious New York foundation backing her year-long research on misinformation, along with a book deal, TED Talk, and even a television series. In this scenario, Karen would travel first-class to the U.S., stay in a luxury suite in New York’s Freedom Tower, and immerse herself in domestic research on conspiracy theories. She filled out this fantasy with her personal touches, such as listening exclusively to Ben Harper’s music and dining at a restaurant in Greenwich Village. Together, we explored Karen’s cultural interests, taking her on a virtual tour of New York’s iconic arts and entertainment scene. Her picks ranged from a Shakespearean tragedy to a contemporary ballet by Ballet Rambert, the Broadway musical Cats , and an opera performance of Tosca.  Her film choice was A Star is Born,  which she noted she hadn’t finished and looked forward to experiencing fully for its emotional storytelling. To conclude, I envisioned a celebratory dinner for Karen, her partner, and a special guest of her choice. She chose her late mentor, Georges Vard, a revered theatre director from Geneva, who left a lasting impact on her career and personal philosophy. As we wrapped up, Karen and I exchanged our mutual appreciation. I thanked her for her valuable contributions to the Arts and Culture Network and for her tireless efforts in the challenging realm of online information. This engaging dialogue highlighted Karen’s dedication to authenticity and truth and underscored the network’s commitment to supporting artists who use their influence to benefit society. You can find Karen on LinkedIn here . And you will find her website here . Would you like to be 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 Rafe Gomez (cultural preservation pioneer) Rafe Gomez is a New York based and acclaimed DJ, radio personality, and business strategist, known for his innovative blend of cultural preservation and marketing expertise. In our interview, I created a fantasy cultural year for Rafe. Expect, surprises, anecdotes, laughter, and conversational detours. As the DJ/host/producer of Danceteria Rewind , a popular weekly two-hour Twitch livestream, which streams Thursday evenings from 7-9 p.m. U.S. Central Time. Rafe brings the legendary energy of the iconic Danceteria nightclub (1979–1986) back to life. His curated mix of early hip-hop, punk, disco, funk, and emerging EDM recreates the genre-blending music experience that defined New York City nightlife in the 1980s. With nearly 50,000 followers , Danceteria Rewind  offers a “theater of the mind” for listeners seeking to relive, or discover, the eclectic sounds and artistic collaboration that shaped that era. Beyond his role as a DJ, Rafe is a co-founder of VC Inc. Marketing, an award-winning firm that helps businesses grow through thought leadership, competitive analysis, and media strategy. His work with clients in education, hospitality, real estate, tech, and more has been featured in top media outlets like Forbes , Fast Company , and CNBC . Rafe’s commitment to both business and culture showcases his unique ability to bridge the past and present in innovative ways. In his engaging interview with me Rafe Gomez offers an in-depth look at the inspiration and journey behind his Twitch show Danceteria Rewind . The conversation begins with Rafe recounting the pandemic as a period of self-reflection. Like many, he struggled with the isolation and uncertainty of those times but was struck by a realisation: despite his success as a marketing professional and DJ, he was missing a creative outlet that truly excited him. On a midnight walk, he asked the universe for guidance, which led him back to his roots in music and a desire to resurrect a formative experience in his life, the iconic Danceteria nightclub in New York City. Rafe explains that Danceteria Rewind  was born out of his fascination with the club’s eclectic music mix and the energy it fostered. Danceteria wasn’t just a nightclub; it was a cultural hub where different genres, art forms, and creative individuals collided. He vividly recalls how, as a teenager, he was mesmerised by the diverse music that defined the club’s atmosphere, everything from emerging hip-hop and punk to Latin beats, funk, and early EDM. Danceteria's blend of styles and sounds made a lasting impression on him, inspiring him to re-create that feeling for today’s audiences. In the interview, Rafe discusses the meticulous research process that went into crafting Danceteria Rewind . From combing through original DJ playlists to reading books like This Must Be the Place  by Jesse Rifkin and Life and Death on the New York Dance Floor  by Tim Lawrence, Rafe immersed himself in the history of Danceteria and the broader downtown New York scene of the late 70s and early 80s. This deep dive not only helped him curate authentic sets but also allowed him to revive the spirit of a place that was known for bringing together art, music, and nightlife in revolutionary ways. A key theme of the interview is the collaborative ethos of Danceteria, which Rafe emphasises was a defining characteristic of the club. Musicians, visual artists, fashion designers, and other creatives supported one another, exchanging ideas and pushing boundaries. Rafe shares anecdotes about some of the now-famous individuals who worked at the club before they became household names. Madonna, for example, started out as a coat check girl at Danceteria, while the Beastie Boys worked as janitors, and LL Cool J was a doorman. The club’s ability to attract and nurture talent across different mediums is something Rafe aims to celebrate and preserve through his show. Mark and Rafe also explore the role of technology in reviving and reinterpreting cultural experiences. Rafe acknowledges that the physical spaces where such vibrant scenes once thrived are becoming increasingly rare due to rising real estate costs and changing nightlife cultures. However, platforms like Twitch offer a unique opportunity to recreate those experiences virtually, making them accessible to global audiences. With nearly 50,000 followers tuning into Danceteria Rewind , Rafe has successfully created a community that shares his love for this important cultural moment, connecting people across geographies and generations. The interview delves further into Rafe’s vision for the future of Danceteria Rewind . He talks about his goal of not only entertaining listeners but educating them on the historical significance of the music he plays. Many of the tracks he includes in his sets have been sampled or have influenced contemporary artists, offering listeners a deeper appreciation for the roots of today’s popular music. Rafe sees his role as something of a "musical archaeologist," unearthing forgotten sounds and shining a light on their enduring impact. Toward the end of the conversation, Mark and Rafe touch on the broader challenges of cultural preservation in a rapidly evolving digital world. Rafe reflects on how crucial it is to keep the spirit of collaboration alive, even in today’s fragmented creative industries. By blending the old with the new and inviting listeners to engage with the past in meaningful ways, Danceteria Rewind  stands as a testament to the lasting power of music and art to inspire, connect, and energise. Throughout the interview, Rafe’s infectious enthusiasm and deep commitment to preserving this unique slice of New York’s musical history shine through. His dedication to re-creating the magic of Danceteria for a new audience is not only a personal passion but a cultural mission. By bridging the gap between the past and the present, Rafe continues to breathe life into a defining era of creative expression and collaboration, ensuring that its legacy endures. You can find Rafe on LinkedIn here . And you will find Danceteria Rewind on Twitch here . Would you like to be 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 So Youn Kim (abstract expressionism) . So Youn Kim - abstract artist So Youn Kim is a multifaceted artist, researcher, and intellectual whose work blends creative expression with academic rigour, resulting in a unique and thought-provoking approach to abstract art. Visit her website here . In our interview together, we explored her work and I opened a door on what makes her tick by creating her fantasy cultural year. Specialising in postmodern contemporary abstract expressionism, So Youn’s paintings are more than visual representations; they are deeply rooted in her intellectual background, cultural journey, and philosophical musings. Her artistic journey began at a young age in Seoul, Korea, where a visit to a Picasso exhibition left a profound impact on her creative vision. That early experience sparked a lifelong passion for art and an enduring fascination with abstract expressionism, a style that allows her to explore the tension between intellect and emotion, structure and spontaneity. At the age of 14, So Youn relocated to Canada, a move that added a multicultural dimension to her artistic and intellectual identity. Immersed in diverse cultural and academic settings, she developed a keen interest in blending her experiences with her art, exploring how cultural, philosophical, and social themes can manifest through abstract visual forms. This cultural fluidity informs her creative process, enabling her to synthesise multiple influences, from Korean heritage and Western philosophical thought to her engagement with international art movements. As a result, her work transcends geographical and disciplinary boundaries, inviting viewers into a global conversation about art, culture, and meaning. So Youn’s artistic process is characterised by spontaneity, intuition, and an interplay of various mediums. Working primarily with acrylics, oil pastels, and collaged materials such as newspaper and fabric, she builds her paintings through layers, adding, reworking, and refining until the piece feels complete. She describes her method as quick and improvisational, driven more by instinct than by a premeditated plan. This fluid, organic approach stands in contrast to more rigid, analytical methods often associated with artistic creation, emphasising instead the importance of the artist’s emotional and sensory engagement with the work. For So Youn, art is a form of synthesis, melding the visual, intellectual, and material into a cohesive whole. Influenced by a wide range of artists, including Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, René Magritte, and Jean-Michel Basquiat, So Youn draws inspiration from their ability to break boundaries, challenge conventional aesthetics, and encourage deep reflection in their audience. Picasso’s Cubism and African art-inspired cosmopolitanism, Matisse’s use of colour and line, Magritte’s surreal and intellectual provocations, and Basquiat’s raw, unrefined aesthetic, all of these elements contribute to So Youn’s distinctive style, which she terms “garbage beauty,” where unsophistication gives rise to sophistication. So Youn’s work, however, is not just about visual stimulation; it is about intellectual exploration. She engages deeply with philosophical texts, particularly those of Michel Foucault, Marcus Aurelius, and Ralph Waldo Emerson. Foucault’s discourse on culture and power, Aurelius’ Stoic reflections on order and clarity, and Emerson’s transcendentalist ideas of individualism and innovation all underpin her creative philosophy. This intellectual engagement informs not only the creation of her artwork but also the way she frames and describes it, using textual analysis to further explore the layers of meaning in her visual compositions. In her view, art is a thinking process as much as it is a creative one. This perspective sets her apart, as she blends her visual art with writing, offering her audience both an emotional and intellectual entry point into her work. Her paintings are accompanied by rich, qualitative analyses that draw from social science and anthropology, inviting viewers to think critically about what they see and how they interpret it. For So Youn, art is not about providing answers but about asking questions and sparking dialogue. Beyond her artistic pursuits, So Youn is also a dedicated researcher in international affairs and an advisor in public policy and analysis, bringing her intellectual curiosity and analytical skills into broader societal discussions. Her multidisciplinary background allows her to bridge the worlds of art and academia, using both as platforms for exploring issues related to culture, politics, and global affairs. She is fluent in English, French, and Korean, further reflecting her ability to navigate diverse contexts and engage with audiences from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. So Youn’s work has been exhibited in various settings, from high school art studios to larger gallery spaces, and she continues to expand her artistic practice. Her use of large canvases allows her to fully express the scale and depth of her ideas, pushing her beyond the limitations of smaller, more easily stored works. She views Venice, with its rich history of art and culture, as an ideal setting for her work, its international art exhibitions providing the perfect platform for her to engage with a global audience. In summary, So Youn Kim is not just an abstract artist; she is a thinker, a researcher, and a cultural synthesiser. Her work reflects a deep engagement with both the visual and intellectual realms, blending creativity and academic insight into a powerful form of expression. Whether through her large-scale abstract paintings or her thoughtful analyses of art’s role in society, So Youn invites her audience to see the world, and art itself, through a new, more expansive lens. Our podcast interview: Some of So Youn's work. Find more on Instagram . You can find So Youn on LinkedIn here , on Instagram here , reach her by email here and her website is here . Would you like to be 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 Elizabeth Blake-Thomas - Film Director Elizabeth Blake-Thomas lives and breathes stories, whether through the lens of a camera, the pages of a book, or the microphone of a podcast. As an award-winning creativity coach, film director, global keynote speaker, and CEO of Medicine With Words , she has made it her life’s mission to inspire and guide others to discover their true potential. Whether she's helping someone declutter their mind or calling "action" on set, Elizabeth's approach is fearless, focused, and deeply human. Mark said it was such a privilege to get to know Elizabeth better, especially through the fantasy cultural year we created together and our This or That game. Elizabeth's career journey is nothing short of eclectic. In 2007, she founded U+ Entertainment , an organisation designed to help young people tap into their creativity. For nearly a decade, she guided the company as Global CEO, empowering youth to dream, discover, and create. During the same period, she also helmed Essential Basics , providing start-up training and networking advice for businesses. All the while, her love for drama was evident, especially during her tenure as Director of Drama at Foremarke Preparatory School, where she nurtured young performers to find their voice on stage. In 2015, Elizabeth took her storytelling to the next level, transitioning fully into directing. Under her own name, she began creating a portfolio of films that reflect her unique vision, earning her recognition both in the industry and among audiences. But storytelling is never far from the classroom for Elizabeth. Between 2020 and 2021, she was a part-time professor at Pepperdine Graziadio Business School, teaching students about the power of words and narrative. Meanwhile, she founded Mother & Daughter Entertainment  in 2018 with her daughtrer, actor/director Isabella Blake-Thomas, a production company born from a real-life mother-daughter duo that’s committed to creating "content that matters." With a heart for inclusivity and a focus on mentoring the next generation of filmmakers, Elizabeth and her team produce films with a purpose. They have garnered praise for their seamless productions, ensuring that everything from budgeting to post-production is meticulously executed. In the process, the company has cultivated a family-like atmosphere in the often cutthroat world of entertainment. As if filmmaking wasn’t enough, Elizabeth launched her personal creative endeavour, Medicine With Words , in 2019. Through this platform, she provides coaching to individuals, families, and corporations, helping them rediscover mindfulness and intention in their lives. Using a mix of play, writing, and drawing exercises, Elizabeth has developed a unique, therapeutic approach to healing and growth, grounded in her studies of trauma and childhood development. Most recently, Elizabeth's love for teaching and creativity has expanded to the airwaves, with the launch of her podcast, " Filmmaking Without Fear. "  Available on Apple, Google, Spotify, and other platforms, the podcast is yet another avenue through which she shares her wisdom, this time focusing on removing the fear from the filmmaking process. At her core, Elizabeth Blake-Thomas is a storyteller who sees the beauty and power in words, images, and experiences. Whether guiding a creative client through a mental block or directing a feature film, she remains committed to helping others find their voice, live with intention, and make a lasting impact. You can find Elizabeth on LinkedIn here , on her Medicine with Words website here , and on Mother Daughter Entertainment here . You can reach her on LinkedIn here , and by email here . Would you like to be 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. 5 tips to ignite your online revenues On Thursday 17th October 2024, Arts and Culture Network Ambassador Jasmine Sandler shared her 5 tips on how to ignite your online revenues in the arts and culture sector. If you missed it, here is the recording below. Jasmine has a special offer for Arts and Culture Network full members. Use code ACN15 for 15% off any Artist Brand or Business consulting zoom offer which includes review of artist business and brand , live recorded consultation and delivery of recording.  Several coaching options are available: here  https://www.jasminesandlerdigitalmarketingmedia.com/jsm-branding-products/p/artistbusinessandbrandingadvisoryservices (Limited to one session per customer.) Jasmine Sandler https://www.jasminesandlerdigitalmarketingmedia.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/onlinebranding/ jasmine@jasminesandler.com Enjoy ... Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM Chief of Stuff 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 Mounya Kecha . Mounya Kecha -a socially conscious artist. It was a great pleasure interviewing Arts and Culture Network full member and artist Mounya Kecha (AKA Dylaks) recently with the help of ACN ambassador Vincent Messelier to overcome my lack of French. Listen on Spotify here . Born in Mulhouse in France, Mounya Kecha has journeyed through a diverse and dynamic artistic career. With a solid foundation in traditional education, Kecha earned a BAC in mathematics and philosophy, with a specialisation in visual arts. Her academic pursuits led her to obtain a diploma in Social Work, where she dedicated 12 years of her life, while later transitioning into the world of design by completing a work-study program in Graphic Design, focusing on visual communication and multimedia. She now works as a freelance graphic designer and artist. Kecha’s passion for visual expression deepened through formal training in painting at Arpajon and drawing classes at the Louvre Museum in Paris. This blend of theoretical and practical experience underpins her creative approach, shaped by her understanding of art history, regular visits to museums, art centres, and exhibitions, alongside hands-on exploration of different artistic techniques. Specialising in acrylic and spray paint, Kecha also works with oil, Indian ink, and charcoal, among other mediums. Her compositions are often sparked by photographic inspiration or spontaneous, serendipitous creations that evoke a feeling of déjà vu. These works are more than aesthetic expressions, they often delve into themes close to her heart, such as the human condition, environmental issues, and societal relationships. Through her work, she invites viewers to engage emotionally and reflect on these important subjects. Kecha’s artistic voice is heavily influenced by modern and contemporary art, pop rock, hip hop culture, street art, and graffiti, as well as cinema and television. She actively promotes graffiti as a legitimate art form, participating in collective mural projects and competitions. Her murals, commissioned or collaborative, aim to bring art into the public eye, turning walls into platforms for creative expression and open dialogue, much like an alternative to advertising. In blending the artistic with the sociological and scientific, Kecha’s work serves dual purposes: to create striking visual art and to communicate meaningful messages, making art both a personal and public experience.not your average creative soul. She’s a New York based whirlwind of artistic prowess, an embodiment of curiosity, and a champion of creativity in all its most rebellious forms. Some of Mounya's work You can find Mounya on LinkedIn here , on Instagram here , and reach her by email here . Would you like to be 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 Marek and Alice . Once upon a time, Marek Tribedi was managing people in suits at Lloyds Bank, and Alice Tribedi was taking the stage at the Comedy Store and rubbing shoulders with the likes of Harry Hill and Ruby Wax. But now, together, they’ve ventured into a whole new creative galaxy. They are Words2Music , a fusion performance art duo that mixes spoken word, ambient music, and captivating imagery, all served with a sprinkle of humour and a whole lot of soul. Mark enjoyed hearing about the wandering creative paths of Marek and Alice' and how they joined their paths to work together as fusion performance art specialists. Creating their fantasy cultural year and playing the This or That game was much fun with two people for the first time! Let’s start with Marek, a self-confessed digital-age keyboard wizard, who swapped the world of financial spreadsheets for musical soundscapes. His journey began after many years in senior management, but something called to him, perhaps it was the echo of all those years playing in rock bands during his university days at Glasgow. With a BSc in Psychology under his belt (and rock music as his extracurricular life), Marek went on to earn a Post Graduate Certificate in Performance Coaching. Marek is also an Encore UK Fellow , helping experienced professionals transition from corporate life to purpose-driven roles in the non-profit sector. He believes in creating meaningful intergenerational connections, a philosophy that certainly informs his work with Alice, in care homes. Yes, when he’s not composing for Words2Music , you’ll find Marek on the keys, supporting Alice in her "Singalong with Alice" shows, an experience that combines laughter, music, and moments of deep connection. And now, onto Alice , a dazzling performer with a CV that reads like a box of assorted delights! With training from Italia Conti, East 15, and Pineapple Dance Studios, she’s danced in West End musicals, played Shakespearean roles, and even taken on the role of Monica Lewinsky in a play! Adding to that, her multiple awards for comedy and community coaching, and you’ve got someone whose talent spans across dance, comedy, film, and theatre. Alice has an ability to switch between stand-up comedy gigs and award-winning care home performances for music lovers with dementia. Her care home entertainment work, known for its joyful singalong sessions and mindfully crafted chair-based exercises, has garnered her the title of UK Community Coach of the Year, not once, but four times. Oh, and she’s a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, because why not? She’s a champion of mindfulness, mental health, and finding joy in unexpected places. Together, Marek and Alice are Words2Music . They began their artistic collaboration with a charity event for children in Ukraine, and soon, they were performing at theatres, arts centres, and even corporate away days. Their performances are immersive, using ambient music and imagery to bring Alice’s poetry to life, covering themes like mental health, war, and even Victorian prostitution (now that’s range!). But it’s not all heavy stuff, there’s also humour, ghost stories, and some good ol' Victorian sauciness! With a symbiotic blend of poetic narrative and musical mood-setting, they transform each performance into a multi-sensory experience that sticks with you long after the last note has played. Whether it’s providing thoughtful entertainment for art galleries or shaking things up at corporate training events, Marek and Alice’s creative partnership is a rich tapestry of experience, passion, and a genuine love for the transformative power of the arts. You can find Marek on LinkedIn here , Alice on LinkedIn here . Words2Music website here , Facebook here , Instagram here , X here . Singalong with Alice website here . Would you like to be 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 Kate Dillingham. If Kate Dillingham were a piece of music, she'd be a composition that defies genres—sweeping between classical masterpieces and contemporary tech harmonies, all while laying down a rhythm that's impossible to ignore. A cellist, composer, teacher and visionary, she’s crafted a career that spans concert stages, boardrooms, and virtual platforms. Mark said it was great fun interviewing Kate with his conversational style, getting to know what she does, creating her fantasy cultural year and of course playing the This or That game so he can get to know her better and so can all our viewers. Watch the video or listen to the audio version. The Musical Prelude: Early Years & International Spotlight Kate's journey begins, of course, with the cello. From the concert halls of Salzburg to the stages of Moscow, her performances of Dvorak and Haydn concerti have left audiences breathless. She's graced iconic venues like Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art, bringing both classical works and her own contemporary edge to the world. Her love for the cello isn’t confined to playing it; Kate has been instrumental in keeping the instrument's legacy alive as the President of the Violoncello Society of New York . Under her leadership, she’s collaborated with legends like Yo-Yo Ma and John-Henry Crawford while overseeing the creation of ensemble performances and masterclasses. Preserving history while driving innovation? That’s the Kate Dillingham way. The Pivot to Innovation: Kate, the Tech Entrepreneur But wait, Kate isn’t just a cellist. In true Renaissance spirit, she leapt into the tech world, founding MyBlueSkiesMusic  during the pandemic. With the precision of a seasoned performer and the vision of a tech entrepreneur, Kate built an edtech platform that empowers musicians worldwide to teach, perform, and collaborate seamlessly. In the age of virtual everything, MyBlueSkiesMusic , a music meeting app, sets itself apart by offering unmatched audio quality from the moment musicians log in. No ads, no spam, no fuss. It’s a space designed for  musicians, by a musician who knows the frustrations of glitchy audio during live-streamed performances. Kate’s invention is more than just a business; it’s her way of giving back to the artistic community, making sure that artists can not only survive but thrive online. Whether you're a teacher looking to expand your reach, a student or a performer ready to broadcast to the world, MBSM turns every session into a virtual concert hall, minus the echo. It's personal, professional, and packed with the kind of high-end tech usually reserved for recording studios. In short, MBSM isn’t just a platform—it’s a stage where every musician can sound their best. Leadership with Purpose: Kate’s Nonprofit Engagement Kate’s leadership extends beyond her startup, though. She serves as Artistic Director for ArtsAhimsa: Music for Peace , an organisation focused on using music to promote peace and understanding in our chaotic world. Through concerts and festivals across New York, Massachusetts, and Washington, D.C., Kate curates performances that align with her passion for making the world a better place, one note at a time. Whether organising the annual “Spring Musicale” at the Dvorak American Heritage Association or leading workshops in chamber music, Kate brings her unique blend of creativity and discipline to everything she touches. A Harmonious Future: Teacher, Innovator, Leader Kate Dillingham isn't just a musician; she’s a builder of ideas, communities, and technology. She’s equally comfortable performing a Haydn concerto in front of thousands as she is presenting her tech startup to a panel of MBA students at Duke University. Balancing her role as a GRAMMY Voting Member, educator, and entrepreneur, she proves time and time again that music and technology can not only coexist but thrive together. Through it all, Kate remains laser-focused on her mission: to create opportunities for musicians around the globe. Whether she's recording an album in Moscow or building a global edtech empire, one thing’s for sure—Kate Dillingham plays to win. And she plays beautifully. You can find Kate via her LinkedIn here , website here , Instagram here , YouTube here and visit MyBlueSkiesMusic here . Would you like to be interviewed? We'll publish the video to our YouTube channel and embed it in a profile we will write about you. We'll also create an entry for you in our searchable directory . Your interview will be promoted on all our socials, by email like this, and posted as a pinned post at the top of all our LinkedIn groups where we now have over 100,000 registered members, serving 1.5m post views to over 500,000 LinkedIn users every month. 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 John. John Heavern , a mystical lyricist hailing from the snow-dusted corners of Buffalo, New York, is a man who dances in dual worlds. Currently residing in Charlotte, North Carolina, he weaves his poetic tales not just in lyrics but also in the machinery of steel and the rigours of warehouse work. But don’t be fooled by his industrial exterior. John’s soul sings through his collaborations with Dutch composer Martin Gelderman, a partnership that has brought forth over a hundred songs, many still waiting to be unleashed upon the world. Born in the shadow of Buffalo’s icy winters, John grew up with words and music running through his veins. His lyrical style, rich with mystical imagery and introspection, sets him apart. His creative talents have found a home on Kompoz.com , where he’s penned over 500 songs, with nearly 200 published and 130 “lyric videos” adorning his YouTube channel, a digital temple where words and music intertwine. However, this lyrical writer is no stranger to the practical world. With an 8-year background in steel fabrication, John mastered a variety of machines, from plasma cutters to forklifts. His time in the Navy saw him promoted quickly through the ranks, thanks to his quick thinking and ability to handle emergency situations at sea. As the years passed, John’s dual talents flourished. By day, he worked with steel and materials, lifting beams with overhead cranes and ensuring warehouses ran smoothly. By night, he danced through melodies and rhymes, pouring his soul into song. His lyrical journey led to a fruitful collaboration with Gelderman, forming a bridge between American grit and European refinement, creating songs that wander through genres and across oceans. Now, with nearly two decades of expertise under his belt, John remains a man of contrasts, both a meticulous organiser of raw materials and a dreamer who can pluck words out of the air and set them to music. Whether he’s running a saw or composing a haunting lyric, John Heavern moves through life as a poet in an industrial world, balancing practicality with pure creative spirit. You can find John via LinkedIn here and on YouTube here . Would you like to be interviewed? We'll publish the video to our YouTube channel and embed it in a profile we will write about you. We'll also create an entry for you in our searchable directory . Your interview will be promoted on all our socials, by email like this, and posted as a pinned post at the top of all our LinkedIn groups where we now have over 100,000 registered members, serving 1.5m post views to over 500,000 LinkedIn users every month. 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 Heidi. Heidi Pyper isn't your typical wordsmith. Oh no, she’s the secret weapon behind the scenes, capturing the untold stories of those who have shaken their industries to the core. With an uncanny ability to extract the battles, triumphs, and quiet resilience from her clients, Heidi transforms their journeys into compelling memoirs that are impossible to put down. But don’t be fooled, Heidi isn’t just about ghostwriting; she’s a one-woman powerhouse on a mission to give voice to those who have walked the road less travelled. Mark and Heidi discussed her daily routine, interests, and experiences, including her ongoing work on memoirs and her fondness for cafes. They also planned a hypothetical trip to China when creating Heidi's fantasy cultural year, discussing cultural activities, music preferences, and the lack of irony in Alanis Morissette's "Isn't it Ironic". The This or That Game provided even more of an insight into Heidi. A Journey Through Words and Worlds Heidi’s story starts long before she ever picked up a pen as a professional ghostwriter. With a background as diverse as the stories she tells, Heidi has worn many hats, each one adding a new layer to her narrative tapestry. In 2004, she found herself in Ningbo, China, where she began her career as an English teacher at English First. Within nine months, her natural knack for teaching and leadership saw her rise to the role of Senior English Teacher, where she helped everyone from kids to business professionals navigate the tricky waters of English language learning. Fast forward to 2009, Heidi returned to the UK and launched "Bonjour Tonton!", a whimsical venture where she taught French to preschoolers, complete with educational videos and Tonton the Tortoise as her sidekick. This wasn’t just a gig; it was an 11-year journey into the world of language learning, blogging, and even picture book publishing. By 2020, Heidi was already a seasoned pro in the world of content and copywriting. She took on roles as a marketing specialist, where she crafted compelling marketing work for brands like NEXT DESK, helping to launch a foldable home office desk that was born out of the COVID pandemic. Her words didn’t just sell products; they built brands. But Heidi’s passion for storytelling didn’t stop at product descriptions and marketing slogans. In April 2023, she took a leap of faith and embraced the role she was born for, ghostwriting. Her focus? The untold stories of those who have broken barriers, shattered expectations, and created new paths where none existed before. The Cultural Me and the Power of Stories As if ghostwriting wasn’t enough to keep her busy, Heidi is also a Community Manager and Editorial Assistant at The Cultural Me . Since January 2024, she’s been welcoming new writers into a vibrant community dedicated to exploring life through the arts and humanities. Her role isn’t just about editing; it’s about fostering a space where voices from all walks of life can be heard, their stories shaped and shared with the world. Her freelance work as an Arts & Culture Writer has also seen her dive into topics close to her heart, literature and spirituality. Her article on the poetry of Dylan Thomas, for instance, is a testament to her love for words and the profound impact they can have on our understanding of humanity and the divine. The Heartbeat of Heidi's Work Heidi’s work is more than just a job; it’s a calling. She’s not just interested in the glitzy, polished parts of success, she’s driven to uncover the gritty, raw truths that often lie hidden beneath the surface. Whether you’re an arts professional with a story to tell or a game-changer ready to set the record straight, Heidi is the one who can help you craft your narrative. Heidi believes that sharing your story is a powerful act of self-liberation. It’s a way to reclaim your truth, inspire others, and - most importantly - honour the journey that brought you to where you are today. So, are you ready to tell your story? Because Heidi Pyper is ready to write it. You can find Heidi via her LinkedIn here , website here , Instagram here , Medium here . Whether you end up working with her or not, one thing’s for sure—you’ll be glad you made the connection. Would you like to be interviewed? We'll publish the video to our YouTube channel and embed it in a profile we will write about you. We'll also create an entry for you in our searchable directory . Your interview will be promoted on all our socials, by email like this, and posted as a pinned post at the top of all our LinkedIn groups where we now have over 100,000 registered members, serving 1.5m post views to over 500,000 LinkedIn users every month. 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