Creative
Directory

Do you work in the creative sector? Are you based in Medway?

Our Creative Directory showcases the extraordinary range of creative organisations and businesses based here in Medway. We would love you to join us. Whether you are freelance, a sole trader, run a creative sector business or organisation, we are keen to profile what you do.

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Find out more about a few of the people who make up our Creative Medway Community!

Three children of different ethnicities stand looking out into a room. The words FABA DRAMA appear in white in the centre of the image.

FABA Drama

Film, TV, Video, Radio

Three children of different ethnicities stand looking out into a room. The words FABA DRAMA appear in white in the centre of the image.

FABA Drama

Film, TV, Video, Radio

Email: info@fabadrama.com
Website: www.fabadrama.com
Phone: 07931 922023
Professional (> 4 years)

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We’re Tobi and Prisca Bakare, founders of FABA Drama, a drama class for young actors in Medway.  

As professionally trained actors with acting credits including Death in Paradise, Kingsman, EastEnders and more. Our workshop will give insight in what it takes to have a future in the arts, offering in-depth, playful, and practical acting techniques that can benefit both aspiring actors, people who simply love drama and even those who don’t enjoy drama, with all exercises having an ethos of creativity, expression and team work.

A photo of a photograph of a woman with red curly hair wearing a red hoodie and blue jeans standing in front of a doorway.

Paige Megan Hawley

Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Photography

A photo of a photograph of a woman with red curly hair wearing a red hoodie and blue jeans standing in front of a doorway.

Paige Megan Hawley

Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Photography

Email: paigemegan.hawley@live.co.uk
Website: www.paigemeganhawley.com
Phone: 07947147270
Professional (> 4 years)

Paige’s work is driven by her experience of when she was raped, making her want to act for a social change.

She captured her emotions ‘Turning a Negative impact into a Positive’ through the concepts of the photographic development of film. The projects expanded from this theme led onto many exhibitions, and other art projects. This is when Paige became interested in curation and she also became the founder of Nasty Women London, which later led on to Nasty Gallery, a platform for unrepresented women in the arts.

“Photography is a way of feeling and expressing. Capture the emotion, develop from the negatives, stop the process, move forward by fixing the situation with a piece of art.”

Paige is also a life model and uses her self documentary as a real-life canvas for life-drawing classes, incorporating performance art.

Paige is also working on a new photographic project; At Arms Length is an ongoing photographic campaign which was started in 2017.

Paige has her my own studio which is a safe space for women to come and she can share her healing process with you. This space is about reclaiming the narrative, empowering voices, and creating a community of understanding and support.

Explore Paige’s work here:
https://www.galeriedunord-amsterdam.nl/paige-megan-hawley
https://www.nucleusarts.com/halpern-chatham
https://www.thehouseofsmalls.com/stop?pgid=mhgckqfl7-2eb0956a-ac24-468a-9d9a-d525eaa0f152
www.nastygallery.co.uk
www.paigemeganhawley.com

The words 'MESS ROOM' surrounded by a red border. The letters look like they have been cut out imperfectly with scissors.

Mess Room CIC

Crafts, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

The words 'MESS ROOM' surrounded by a red border. The letters look like they have been cut out imperfectly with scissors.

Mess Room CIC

Crafts, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

Workshop Leader

Email: mail@messroom.org.uk
Website: https://www.messroom.org.uk
Phone: 07989264768
Professional (> 4 years)

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The MESS ROOM is an inclusive, welcoming space where creativity, confidence and connection are nurtured through accessible artistic practice. We are committed to ensuring that people of all ages and abilities have the opportunity to express themselves and engage meaningfully with the arts and heritage.

With over 30 years of combined experience, our team of artists specialises in working with disabled people, including individuals with sight loss. We use a range of inclusive activities and communication methods to ensure everyone can participate fully and comfortably.

We collaborate with schools, community groups and cross-sector partners to improve access to the arts. We raise awareness of the barriers that can prevent participation and demonstrate practical ways to create more inclusive environments.

In addition to our community work, we produce commissioned artworks, curate exhibitions and lead cultural events that promote equality, inclusion and the diverse creative talents of our participants.

Our sight loss art groups take place in Chatham, Gravesend, Canterbury, Bromley and Tunbridge Wells.

Projects include:

MESS ROOM Connects
Out of Sight Not Out of Mind

A photo of a woman dressed in black with long brown hair and a fringe sitting in front of a wall covered by a black and white artwork. Another black and white artwork covers the table she is leaning on.

Liz Atkin

Crafts, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

A photo of a woman dressed in black with long brown hair and a fringe sitting in front of a wall covered by a black and white artwork. Another black and white artwork covers the table she is leaning on.

Liz Atkin

Crafts, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

Workshop Leader

Email: liz.atkin@btopenworld.com
Website: Www.lizatkin.com

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Liz Atkin is an artist and educator. She reimagines her Compulsive Skin Picking and anxiety into drawings, photographs and performances. Liz is a mental health advocate and raises awareness for the disorder around the world. She has exhibited and taught in the UK, Europe, Australia, USA, Singapore and Japan. Her work is permanently held in the Wellcome Collection, South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, Derby Museum, and Bethlem Gallery Collection supported by the Peter Sowerby Foundation and National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Before the Covid-19 pandemic, she gave away more than 18,000 free #CompulsiveCharcoal newspaper drawings to commuters on public transport in London, New York, San Francisco, Singapore, Cologne and more.  Liz teaches art in schools, hospitals, hospices, prisons, arts venues and universities. She is an ambassador for The Big Draw, the world’s largest drawing festival, focusing on the role of creativity for health and wellbeing.

Liz received the Unstoppable Spirit Award forOutspoken Advocacy at the TLC Global Conference for Skin Picking and Hair Pulling Disorders in San Francisco in 2018, and was a finalist in the Janey Antoniou Award with Rethink Mental Illness in 2018.  Her work has featured on TEDx, BBC News, Woman’s Hour, Vice, Women’s Health USA, Huffington Post, Channel News Asia, Metro, AlJazeera and more.

A black and white artistic photograph of a person sitting in front of a sheet with another sheet over their head and shoulders.

Bam Savage

Design (product, graphic, fashion), Film, TV, Video, Radio, Photography

A black and white artistic photograph of a person sitting in front of a sheet with another sheet over their head and shoulders.

Bam Savage

Design (product, graphic, fashion), Film, TV, Video, Radio, Photography

Email: bam0graphy1@gmail.com
Website: https://bam0graphy1.wixsite.com/portfolio
Phone: 07522996458
Professional (> 4 years)

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I’m Bam, a young photographer with over 5 years of experience in photography and media. My primary discipline is photography, but I also have a passion for filmmaking and cinematography. I completed my L2 in film and media with a distinction, my L3 photography with three distinctions, and have just finished my first year of HND Photography where I have achieved high grades too.

The words 'The Friends of the River Medway' with an image of water reflecting trees in he background.

Zofia Page

Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

The words 'The Friends of the River Medway' with an image of water reflecting trees in he background.

Zofia Page

Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

Workshop Leader

Email: zofiapage@gmail.com
Website: www.formedway.org
Phone: 07713574941
New professional (< 4 years)

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I’m the project manager for Friends of the River Medway, a group dedicated to restoring the River Medway to good health. This summer, from 19th to 27th July, we’re hosting a special pilgrimage – From Source to Sea – tracing the river’s journey from its origins to the estuary. On 26th July, we’ll hold a vibrant day of events and activities in Rochester to celebrate the river and our connection to it.

As part of the celebration, we’re curating an art exhibition titled Medway as Our Muse, inviting artists and creatives of all kinds to take inspiration from the river and contribute their work. Whether you paint, sculpt, photograph, write, or explore other forms, we’d love to see how the Medway moves you.

We are looking for volunteers to help with the pilgrimage and art exhibition. Please contact zofiapage@gmail.com if you are interested.

Find our more about the pilgrimage here: https://www.formedway.org/projects/from-source-to-sea
Find out more about Medway as Our Muse here: https://www.formedway.org/projects/medway-as-our-muse

A young man with short dark hair and stubble stands in front of a white brick wall.

Sam Hall

Film, TV, Video, Radio, IT, video games, software, Music & performing arts

A young man with short dark hair and stubble stands in front of a white brick wall.

Sam Hall

Film, TV, Video, Radio, IT, video games, software, Music & performing arts

Email: samhall11@hotmail.co.uk
Website: www.samhallcomposer.com
Phone: 07825133797
Professional (> 4 years)

Sam studied contemporary classical composition at the Royal College of Music with Mark-Anthony Turnage and has had his music and orchestrations played by first class orchestras including the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, The Southbank Sinfonia (BBC Proms) and the London Philharmonic Orchestra (Royal Festival Hall).

Sam has written music for games, plays and musicals, short films, documentaries, concert halls, contemporary dance, library companies and all kinds of bands as a songwriter (including hip-hop, indie-rock, contemporary jazz and folk).
​
Sam has worked as a Music Supervisor, Musical Director and Multi-instrumentalist on many West End, International and Touring shows.
​
His music straddles many different genres and he is always looking to create exciting and innovative new work that push the boundaries of what people expect.

For more information, please follow the link to Sam’s website.

Bright multicoloured graphics in the shape of a circle around the words 'Bright Shadow'.

Bright Shadow

Crafts, Music & performing arts, Photography

Bright multicoloured graphics in the shape of a circle around the words 'Bright Shadow'.

Bright Shadow

Crafts, Music & performing arts, Photography

Email: info@brightshadow.org.uk
Website: brightshadow.org.uk
Phone: 01227467272
Professional (> 4 years)

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We are a creative organisation where people living with dementia and our supporters live well and enjoy making our own high quality art. We work with a wide variety of professional artists who use the power of the arts and creativity to enable people living with dementia – and those who give care – to live happy, healthy lives.

Our Zest groups meet Tuesday mornings, 10am-12pm and form part of our Zest programme which also takes place in Whitstable, Deal, and Hythe. Our Zest at Home programme is a bespoke 1-1 offer, creatively delivered in people’s homes. We also run Medway Choir for a run of sessions annually.

A logo consisting of three cartoon characters against a blue background with the words 'Embracing Arts' circling around them.

Embracing Arts

Music & performing arts

A logo consisting of three cartoon characters against a blue background with the words 'Embracing Arts' circling around them.

Embracing Arts

Music & performing arts

Email: info@embracingarts.org.uk
Website: www.embracingarts.org.uk
Phone: 07961032935
Professional (> 4 years)

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Our mission at Embracing Arts is to improve the quality of life for children with complex care or educational needs and life limiting conditions by providing high quality interactive shows, schools workshops and inclusive parties across the UK! Our theatrical experiences can be brought to them, whether it be at school, a community venue, hospital ward or their home. We use sensory-storytelling, song, music and puppetry to entertain, engage and educate.Recent projects include:

Our recent projects include:

“Chrimblesense” a 60 venue national tour visiting SEND schools and children’s hospices during the 2024 Christmas period.

“Phoebe’s Festive Favourites” a free, digital sensory series where loveable puppet Phoebe shares her favourite elements of Christmas with the audience. Each episode features a song and sensory activities to be facilitated live. The show was accompanied by a resource e-pack guiding parents, teachers and carers on how to facilitate the sensory moments wherever they were, as well as suggested further learning and play exploration.

Embracing Arts are proud to be part of A New Direction’s Primary Arts Programme. We’re bringing our much-loved circus show and workshops to state schools and SEND settings across London as part of A New Direction’s Primary Arts Programme.

We delve deep into sensory exploration, communication, and creating sensory theatre. We give pupils the opportunity to access all the exciting sensory props featured in our show and encourage them to learn new skills such as plate spinning – requiring hand-eye coordination and balance.

To find out more about our work, see:
https://www.embracingarts.org.uk/christmas-for-kids
https://www.embracingarts.org.uk/our-work
https://www.anewdirection.org.uk/primary-arts

A woman with short blonde hair and sunglasses on top of her head smiles at the camera with the sea in the background.

Jane Robb

Photography

A woman with short blonde hair and sunglasses on top of her head smiles at the camera with the sea in the background.

Jane Robb

Photography

Workshop Leader

Website: www.creativevalues.wixsite.com/janerobb
New professional (< 4 years)

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Dr Jane Robb is an artist and academic with over a decade of experience in environmental education, including as a qualified teacher and lecturer in outdoor education. She has expertise in delivering creative, embodied and environmentally focused experiences in different settings including outdoors and in the community. A self-taught artist, she uses photography in the expanded field to explore and develop her view and understanding of the world. Her photographic work often includes written or spoken word combined with hand drawn elements and performance to explore themes of place, belonging, memory, body and landscape. Her exhibited work spans photo-essays, photobooks, video, animation, illustrated flash fiction and fine art.

A headshot of a Black lady with their hair tied back and small hoop earrings, looking to the left of the camera.

Neema Kambona

Advertising & Marketing, Film, TV, Video, Radio, Publishing

A headshot of a Black lady with their hair tied back and small hoop earrings, looking to the left of the camera.

Neema Kambona

Advertising & Marketing, Film, TV, Video, Radio, Publishing

Email: neema@diversitybusinesspromotes.uk
Website: https://diversitybusinesspromotes.uk/
Phone: 07932928915
Professional (> 4 years)

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I am a Creative and Communications Practitioner with more than 20 years experience. I started out as a journalist and actress in the UK and then worked in East Africa in TV and films. I have written and directed films screened at Gottenburg, Lorcano International Film Festivals and obtained a Master’s Degree in Screenwriting.

My audio drama, The Indigo Lady can be heard here on Outwrd Media.
I am also the founder and publisher of Diversity Business Magazine which promotes entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds.

A black and white logo featuring a stylised letter 'H' and the words 'Herbert Baker Society'.

Herbert Baker Society

Architecture, Crafts, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

A black and white logo featuring a stylised letter 'H' and the words 'Herbert Baker Society'.

Herbert Baker Society

Architecture, Crafts, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

Workshop Leader

Email: info@herbertbaker.com
Website: www.herbertbakersociety.org
Phone: 07949178527
New professional (< 4 years)

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The Herbert Baker Society was established to preserve and promote the artistic legacy of this proud Kentish architect, and his many artistic collaborators. Herbert gave his home, Owletts, in Cobham to the National Trust. In Rochester designed the War Memorial on the high street, restored the Rochester Bridge Trust chapel and did drawings of Restoration House. His other works include (in London) the Bank of England, the Indian and South African embassies, and the HQ of the Anglican Church, Church House in Westminster. He built government buildings in New Delhi, and in South Africa built the famous Union buildings, as well as railway stations, cathedrals, banks and 100+ homes. He is credited with creating a new vernacular which fused British and Afrikaner homestead styles.  He was a champion of craftsmanship and supported artists such as Sir Charles Wheeler.

Herbert Baker left a scholarship to support the next generation of architects and we hope to continue this legacy. With Heritage Place we have run a pilot project bringing youth to heritage sites in order to learn about heritage skills such as timber work and stonemasonry. We are keen to help broker more connections between makers with heritage skills, schools/colleges/universities  and heritage organisations.

A headshot of a white man wearing grey hair with a beard and glasses standing in front of a historic building.

Michael Marshall

Advertising & Marketing, Film, TV, Video, Radio

A headshot of a white man wearing grey hair with a beard and glasses standing in front of a historic building.

Michael Marshall

Advertising & Marketing, Film, TV, Video, Radio

Email: marshallsdroneservices@gmail.com
Website: marshallsdroneservices.com
Phone: 07369282889
New professional (< 4 years)

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Hi, I’m Michael from Marshall’s Drone Services Ltd., based in Rainham, Medway. For over two years, we’ve specialized in delivering stunning 4K drone and ground videography for any occasion. Whether it’s capturing breathtaking overhead shots of events, showcasing locations from unique angles, or providing professional ground footage, we ensure every detail is covered.

We use the latest drone technology to create exceptional visuals tailored to your needs. From weddings and social events to venue promotions and aerial inspections, our team is fully equipped to provide high-quality results. As a CAA-registered and insured company, we prioritize safety, professionalism, and client satisfaction.

Let Marshall’s Drone Services Ltd. bring your vision to life with cutting-edge technology and expertise.

A cartoon letter 'P' with a theatre mask partly obscuring it. The word 'Peekaplayers' sits alongside.

Andrea Tiller

Music & performing arts

A cartoon letter 'P' with a theatre mask partly obscuring it. The word 'Peekaplayers' sits alongside.

Andrea Tiller

Music & performing arts

Workshop Leader

Email: andrea@peekaplayers.com
Website: Www.Peekaplayers.com
Phone: 07792462172
New professional (< 4 years)

I deliver creative story telling workshops. Sometimes these take place in schools to boost social, communication and literacy skills and sometimes these are in wider community settings to share stories and come together and a community.


I have worked on the HAF programme with Medway council, Reconnect Programme with Kent County Council and a Covid Recovery Project with Southwark Council where I delivered workshops  and reported my findings as part of a qualitative research project into the Covid 19 Vaccine hesitancy.


I hold a research masters in theatre and performance and a PGCE with QTS.

A Black woman sits on an orange chair holding artworks over a table and smiling at the camera.

Theresa Lola

Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Music & performing arts

A Black woman sits on an orange chair holding artworks over a table and smiling at the camera.

Theresa Lola

Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Music & performing arts

Workshop Leader

Email: theresalola@outlook.com
Website: www.theresalola.com
Phone: 07794634520
Professional (> 4 years)

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I am an award-winning poet, teacher and creative practitioner.

As a creative practitioner I have worked with museums, art galleries, and cultural centres to devise and lead creative writing workshops and programmes that respond to art, culture, or history.

I have taught poetry to primary school level through to advance level, using poetry for a variety of means, whether to build confidence in young people, increase creative engagement, or enhance knowledge of the craft. My work in schools sometimes include speaking about my career, as my poem is studied in the GCSE English Literature syllabus.

I hold a masters in Creative Writing from University of Oxford, and my poetry collection is Ceremony for the Nameless published by Penguin.

A graphic image of a yellow camera with a green lens against a plain black background.

Benjamin Ross

Photography

A graphic image of a yellow camera with a green lens against a plain black background.

Benjamin Ross

Photography

Workshop Leader

Email: bross4460@gmail.com
Phone: 07709500986
New professional (< 4 years)

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I’m a freelance photographer working under the name Ross Photography. I’m a multi disciplined photographer, however I specialise in Event photography, and community fronted projects. I have a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Photography, a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design and I’m currently completing my Higher National Diploma in Photography. I’m open for commissions, freelance work, and consultancy.

You can visit my website here and find samples of my work here.

A man in a black rollneck top with a grey mustache stares unsmilingly directly into the camera.

Lance Phillips

Film, TV, Video, Radio, IT, video games, software, Music & performing arts, Photography, Publishing

A man in a black rollneck top with a grey mustache stares unsmilingly directly into the camera.

Lance Phillips

Film, TV, Video, Radio, IT, video games, software, Music & performing arts, Photography, Publishing

Workshop Leader

Email: lance@physicalfolk.org.uk
Website: https://physicalfolkuk.wordpress.com
Phone: 01634 650 858
Professional (> 4 years)

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Originally from New Zealand, where after completing a Horticulture Degree, I studied Drama and worked as a Professional Actor in Television, Immersive Theatre, and Radio. I also worked as a Set and Lighting Designer for live events.  

I am an actor, author, lecturer, and DaVinci Resolve Trainer, with 30 years experience in training people from diverse backgrounds (including in Prisons and Homeless hostels) in their creative careers.

As a Blackmagic Design Training Partner, my business Physical Folk, specialises in training media/film professionals at the early stage of their careers or those who are new to using Resolve. 

Additionally, I have delivered a colour-grading module at Master’s level for London South Bank University, and guest lectured at University College of the Arts, Farnham and at Met Film. 

As an actor, I had a speaking role ‘Ripis’ alongside Kevin Sorbo in the 90’s TV Series “Hercules”. Recently I was a hand-double for Jared Leto in “Morbius” and Rhys Ifans in “The Phantom of the Open”. I was a Punch and Judy Man for Sir Steve McQueen’s latest film “The Blitz”, where I devised and performed a 10-minute Puppet Show, complete with voices.

Recently, I published a book through Packt called “Video Editing made Easy using DaVinci Resolve 18”.

Physical Folk

Physical Folk

Film, TV, Video, Radio, IT, video games, software, Photography

Physical Folk

Physical Folk

Film, TV, Video, Radio, IT, video games, software, Photography

Workshop Leader

Email: info@physicalfolk.org.uk
Website: https://physicalfolkuk.wordpress.com
Phone: 01634 650 858
Professional (> 4 years)

Follow:

Developing Digital Employment Skills for the Creative Industries.

As an official Blackmagic Design Training Partner, Physical Folk specialises in training media/film professionals at the early stage of their careers or those new to using Resolve to enable them to progress in their creative career in Film/TV/Gaming/XR/Media.

We offer Blackmagic Design’s DaVinci Resolve Certification Training in post-production (Film Editing/Colouring/Sound Design/VFX/Motion Graphics) both live on-line and in person.

In partnership with Sony Europe, we are currently delivering a “CineAlta Camera to Colour Course” at the legendary Pinewood Studios, London.

We have experience in training people from all backgrounds and are neuro-diverse friendly with small group sizes and individualised support.

A woman with a blonde side fringe and hair tied back smiles sideways at the camera wearing a black and white striped jumper in front of wallpaper featuring parrots.

Hannah Fitzpatrick

Design (product, graphic, fashion), Photography

A woman with a blonde side fringe and hair tied back smiles sideways at the camera wearing a black and white striped jumper in front of wallpaper featuring parrots.

Hannah Fitzpatrick

Design (product, graphic, fashion), Photography

Workshop Leader

Email: hannahmfitzpatrick@gmail.com
Phone: 07598699150
Professional (> 4 years)

Occupational Therapist, Photographer, Artist

Hannah is a keen advocate who is passionate about equal access to participation, building supportive communities and wellbeing through creativity.

A woman with long blonde hair wearing glasses and a green dress smiles into the camera in front of a dark background.

Aimee Riddell

Design (product, graphic, fashion), Photography, Publishing

A woman with long blonde hair wearing glasses and a green dress smiles into the camera in front of a dark background.

Aimee Riddell

Design (product, graphic, fashion), Photography, Publishing

Email: hello@byaimee.co.uk
Phone: 01634 829469
Professional (> 4 years)

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I am an experienced Photographer, I love taking new born and family photos but have also photographed lots of theatre shows.
I design and make bespoke clothing clothing.
And at heart I am writer, I have published a number of my own books including 2 plays:
– Rumpelstiltskin – which was first performed in 2022
– The Modern image of Dorian Gray – which will be performed in November 2024
Other writing is in progress…

I am open to writing and design commissions and can work to deadlines.
Available for Photography bookings

A pink and white outline logo of two theatre masks, one wearing a jester hat. Underneath the words 'Spotlites Theatre Company. Explore Your Creativity Through Theatre'.

Spotlites Theatre

Film, TV, Video, Radio, Music & performing arts

A pink and white outline logo of two theatre masks, one wearing a jester hat. Underneath the words 'Spotlites Theatre Company. Explore Your Creativity Through Theatre'.

Spotlites Theatre

Film, TV, Video, Radio, Music & performing arts

Workshop Leader

Email: takepart@spotlites.co.uk
Website: www.spotlites.co.uk
Phone: 01634829468
Professional (> 4 years)

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110 seat Theatre in Chatham providing acting classes, singing lessons and dance classes for children and adults throughout Medway and Kent for nearly 30 years!
Our award winning Theatre provides a safe, inclusive environment surrounded by like minded peers in Medway.

Our Theatre and studio are available for hire to suit all of your needs. High level tech spec and experienced team to support hire.
We are happy to collaborate on projects in and around Medway

Recent Projects:
Dan and Dom: 1 night only for cancer research – A cabaret fundraiser for Cancer Research UK August 24
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – Show by Spotlites Youth Theatre – August 24
Spotlites Showcases – July 24
Comedy for Edinburgh Fringe – series of Stand up WIP shows preparing for their tours to the FRINGE – June – July 24

A clean shaven man wearing a grey suit jacket, purple shirt and bowtie with brown hair sits against a dark background

Kieron Riddell

Film, TV, Video, Radio, Music & performing arts

A clean shaven man wearing a grey suit jacket, purple shirt and bowtie with brown hair sits against a dark background

Kieron Riddell

Film, TV, Video, Radio, Music & performing arts

Workshop Leader

Email: kieron@spotlites.co.uk
Website: www.spotlites.co.uk
Phone: 07999432642
Professional (> 4 years)

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An experienced theatre actor and director and producer, with 16 years professional experience performing and producing for stage and screen and Theatre workshop facilitation.

Interactive Theatre: I have specialised in interactive children’s theatre, touring the country and engaging young audiences, connecting with diverse audiences and adapting performance style to suit different settings and audiences.

I am looking to grow the collaborative work we have been embarking on in recent years.
Previously I was Governor of Diversity, inclusion and Equality at one of the most complicated prisons in England.

Recent projects:
Director / Producer – Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – August 24
Theatre Project Lead – ICON Theatre, Summer Theatre Club – August 24
Actor – Burden of proof (London) June 24    – ‘Kieron Riddell is particularly strong…I particularly admired his voice work’ Susan Elkin Reviews
Director / Producer – Terry Pratchett’s MORT – Feb 24

The words 'DOCKING STATION' in white capitals on a grey background.

The Docking Station

Film, TV, Video, Radio, IT, video games, software, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

The words 'DOCKING STATION' in white capitals on a grey background.

The Docking Station

Film, TV, Video, Radio, IT, video games, software, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

Workshop Leader

Email: DockingStation@kent.ac.uk
Website: https://www.kent.ac.uk/institute-cultural-creative-industries/dockingstation
Phone: 07799871337
Professional (> 4 years)

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Set to open in early 2025, Docking Station aims to reshape the Kent and Medway’s digital future. Developed in partnership with the Institute of Cultural and Creative Industries (iCCi), Medway Council, and the Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust, this ambitious project will harness the power of creative technology, offering new opportunities for young people and the wider communities of Kent and Medway.

A hand drawn black book with the globe and a large yellow arrow reading 'YOU are here' on the cover. The cover also features the Medway River Lit logo in the shape of a pen nib.

Medway River Lit

Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Music & performing arts

A hand drawn black book with the globe and a large yellow arrow reading 'YOU are here' on the cover. The cover also features the Medway River Lit logo in the shape of a pen nib.

Medway River Lit

Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Music & performing arts

Email: riverlit24@gmail.com
Phone: 01634304803
Website: www.medwayriverlit.co.uk / www.wordsmithery.info
Professional (> 4 years)

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Medway River Lit literary festival, ‘You are here’, returns in November in 2024, with a focus on the climate. We’ll be hosting writers and thinkers who are at the forefront of climate fiction and climate fact. They will be programmed alongside the festival features of plays, poetry, children’s authors, Masterclasses and writing workshops. ‘The River Is Lit’ podcast features interviews and discussions about writers coming to the festival.

Medway River Lit 2023 was the first literary festival for all of Medway in 25 years. The inaugural Medway River Lit showcased over 100 writers and performers in genres from spoken word and poetry, to crime, drama, playwriting, biography, fiction, storytelling, psychogeography, fantasy literature, and more!

Medway-based literary organisation Wordsmithery are the festival producers. Wordsmithery have over 10 years’ experience of producing literary projects in Medway.

Listen to the Medway River Lit podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=Ya6w2Do7u3ZZgZen&v=RR1s_YWF5bg&feature=youtu.be

The letter W with an asterix in a black box with rounded edges

Wordsmithery

Design (product, graphic, fashion), Film, TV, Video, Radio, Music & performing arts, Publishing

The letter W with an asterix in a black box with rounded edges

Wordsmithery

Design (product, graphic, fashion), Film, TV, Video, Radio, Music & performing arts, Publishing

Workshop Leader

Email: wordsmithery.info@gmail.com
Website: www.wordsmithery.info
/ www.medwayriverlit.co.uk
Phone: 01634304803
Professional (> 4 years)

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Wordsmithery is an independent literary arts organisation and publisher.

Wordsmithery was founded with the aim of encouraging more people to get into writing and reading, and to work on interesting literary projects with individuals and community groups. We have worked on all sizes of literary project from solo commissioned writing to group text-art exhibitions.

Wordsmithery is regularly commissioned to devise and deliver community engaged creative literary activities. Delivering these commissions often includes involving other creatives and partners. Commissioners have included Medway Council, Lyrici Arts, Icon Theatre, The Rochester Riverside Community Board, Electric Medway and Margate Festival.

Since starting Wordsmithery, we have managed over 100 literature projects and events in Kent and London. Projects range from open mics; to interactive literary games; writing workshops, live lit events and festivals. Wordsmithery have created bespoke literary festivals in Medway including the inaugural Rainham Poetry Festival in 2023, Welcome to Cloisterham in 2021-22 and Medway River Lit, 2023 on.

The Black Art Hub CIC (TBAH)

The Black Art Hub CIC (TBAH)

Design (product, graphic, fashion), Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Photography

The Black Art Hub CIC (TBAH)

The Black Art Hub CIC (TBAH)

Design (product, graphic, fashion), Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Photography

Workshop Leader

Email: theblackarthub@gmail.com
Website: www.theblackarthub.co.uk
Phone: 07305282417
New professional (< 4 years)

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The Black Art Hub is a dynamic community organization dedicated to empowering Black British visual artists and poets through support, visibility, and opportunities for artistic growth.

Our mission is to create a vibrant and inclusive arts ecosystem that celebrates cultural diversity and challenges systemic barriers within the art industry through workshops, networking events and art exhibitions.

Rochester Cathedral from the front with four spires against a blue sky.

Rochester Cathedral

Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Music & performing arts

Rochester Cathedral from the front with four spires against a blue sky.

Rochester Cathedral

Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Music & performing arts

Name: Rochester Cathedral
Email: info@rochestercathedral.org
Website: www.rochestercathedral.org
Phone: 01634843366
Professional (> 4 years)

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England’s second oldest cathedral founded in AD 604 and a place of worship for more than 1,400 years.
Alongside daily worship Rochester Cathedral has become known as a venue for music, performance and exhibitions.

Claire Marshall

Claire Marshall

Crafts, Design (product, graphic, fashion)

Claire Marshall

Claire Marshall

Crafts, Design (product, graphic, fashion)

Workshop Leader

Email: claire.marshall@o-w-e.org.uk
Website: https://o-w-e-cic.org/
Phone: 07498344818
Professional (> 4 years)

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As part of OWE CIC, I offer unique, female only, ‘pop up’ community based programmes that aim to change the bias by empowering women to achieve practical skills in interior decorating (painting & tiling & revamp & recycle).

“The role of our courses is to help women see those possibilities as well as recognise their own skills, transferable skills and abilities as well as applying them with the powerfulness needed to move forward in their journey”.
Angela Steele Founder and CEO.

Find out more about us and opportunities we run here.

A roller with a large wheel on a metal table in a studio.

Medway Fine Printmakers CIC

Design (product, graphic, fashion)

A roller with a large wheel on a metal table in a studio.

Medway Fine Printmakers CIC

Design (product, graphic, fashion)

Name: Medway Fine Printmakers CIC
Email: studio@medwayfineprintmakers.co.uk
Website: https://medwayfineprintmakers.co.uk/
Phone: 01634 790959
Professional (> 4 years)

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Our printmaking studio has a fantastic range of presses and printmaking equipment with which to make fine prints on paper and textiles. We are a not-for-profit studio, run as a community interest company by Medway Fine Printmakers CIC.

We run classes teaching printmaking techniques such as screen printing, linocut, drypoint, collagraph, monoprinting, Risograph, thermofax and photopolymer plates. We love to collaborate with other artists on courses, events, projects and exhibitions and have built up a friendly community of printmakers, based in the maker space run by Intra Arts on Rochester High Street.

Our print studio can be hired by the day for groups to run their own club or teaching sessions for intaglio, silkscreen or relief printing.

We offer affordable open access printmaking to those able to work self-guided on our equipment, and can provide technical help or one to one teaching on request.

A Black lady wearing a colourful headscarf and earrings stands i front of a wall of photographs in an exhibition.

Mbeke Waseme

Photography

A Black lady wearing a colourful headscarf and earrings stands i front of a wall of photographs in an exhibition.

Mbeke Waseme

Photography

Workshop Leader

Name: Mbeke Waseme
Email: wmmekeke@yahoo.co.uk
Website: https://mbekewaseme.international/
Phone: 07915780212
Professional (> 4 years)

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I was born in the UK, to parents from Jamaica. I moved to Gravesend in 2019. I was educated at Goldsmiths College (PGCE and MA) and The University of Sussex (BA).  

I am a Author, Speaker, Photographer and Coach. I facilitate workshops on Writing for Healing, Diversity and Inclusion and Photography.  

I provide one to one and group coaching. I organise local events for women.

Recent collaborations include:

I was one of 23 artists in the Kent Creative Storytelling exhibition at the Beany in Canterbury (December 23-Feb 24)

International Women’s Day Exhibition at St Georges Art Centre in Gravesend  March 2024

Photography with Ebbsfleet Citizens Archive in March 2024

Two women stand in the darkness lit by the glw of two large heart shaped paper lanterns on sticks that they are holding. One multicoloured floral lantern says 'Community' and the other 'Friendship'.

Intra Arts

Crafts, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

Two women stand in the darkness lit by the glw of two large heart shaped paper lanterns on sticks that they are holding. One multicoloured floral lantern says 'Community' and the other 'Friendship'.

Intra Arts

Crafts, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

Workshop Leader

Name: Intra Arts
Email: office@intraarts.org
Website: https://intraarts.org
Phone: 01634 790959
Professional (> 4 years)

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Intra Arts have run an arts venue and maker space in Rochester High Street since 2014, and here the public has access to a wide range of specialist artist-owned equipment. We have a printmaking studio, kilns for glass, craft equipment and many other tools, as well as welcoming workspaces where we run creative classes. We have grown strong roots in the community, co-creating festivals, hosting exhibitions and helping people find creative pathways to better wellbeing.  We offer a multi-disciplinary programme of cultural events, training and activities to build engagement with the arts with people in Medway and Kent.

We aim to provide an arts space that feels welcoming to everyone, and have built a friendly community of people interested in creativity of all kinds. People come to us to learn specialist skills, make things in company, to get a break from the stresses of their lives, have fun, work on projects collectively and individually, meet other local people, and all sorts of other reasons. We don’t require membership, and we keep prices affordable – many of our projects are offered free when funding is secured.

Recent projects:

THE CUT OF HER CLOTH – a two year textile and songwriting project in partnership with Live Music Now, focusing on 10 female leaders of Medway. A series of 60+ creative workshops took place across the Medway Towns, celebrating the women with community-made textile banners, ceremonial garments, and composed songs.
https://intraarts.org/tcohc/

MEDWAY LIGHT NIGHTS – LANTERN PARADE
Commissioned by Ideas Test and Cohesion Plus for Medway Council, Intra Arts ran the willow lantern workshops that resulted in hundreds of proud children and families parading their colourful creations in both these light art events – hosted in Rochester in 2022 and Chatham in 2023. We also designed and created large-scale lanterns, including hearts distinctively decorated with patterns and words, a sun, and a swan.
https://www.instagram.com/p/ComQviLPqsO/

SCRAPSTORE
For 2024 we are developing a Scrapstore resource – saving items from landfill that are useful as creative materials, and building an Aladdin’s cave full of intriguing treasure awaiting its newfound use in arts projects. Memberships will be available for individuals, schools, home educators, nurseries, artists, students and families etc. to access affordable materials.

A woman with brown hair tied back walks towards the camera smiling, holding papers and wearing a high-vis jacket.

Heather Burgess

Advertising & Marketing, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Music & performing arts

A woman with brown hair tied back walks towards the camera smiling, holding papers and wearing a high-vis jacket.

Heather Burgess

Advertising & Marketing, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Music & performing arts

Name: Heather Burgess
Email: heather@sunpierhouse.co.uk
Phone: 01634 401 549
Professional (> 4 years)

I’ve worked in arts management, heritage, not-for-profits and community engagement for over 16 years. I do freelance project management alongside my roles at Sun Pier House, Medway Open Studios and Tiller & Wheel.

Founder and Director of Medway Open Studios CIC
www.medwayopenstudios.org 
Founder and Director of Sun Pier House CIC
www.sunpierhouse.co.uk 
Founder and Director of Tiller & Wheel CIC
www.tillerandwheel.com 

A white oblong shape next to the words 'Lyrici Arts' in white lettering on a teal background.

Lyrici Arts

Music & performing arts

A white oblong shape next to the words 'Lyrici Arts' in white lettering on a teal background.

Lyrici Arts

Music & performing arts

Name: Lyrici Arts
Contact: Laura Murphy
Email: Laura@lyriciarts.com
Website: https://lyriciarts.com/
Phone: 07739342590
Professional (> 4 years)

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Lyrici Arts is a Black led organisation creating theatre and arts programmes that amplify Black and diverse stories. We look at the stories formed from the words and art forms of writing, performance or music. We highlight the stories beneath the text and bring them to life via the mode of theatre. As a Black led company we have a special interest and passion to highlight Black voices who are often underrepresented and underheard in Medway.

A woman in a green top with long dark hair faces the camera.

Nipa Islam

Film, TV, Video, Radio

A woman in a green top with long dark hair faces the camera.

Nipa Islam

Film, TV, Video, Radio

Name: Nipa Islam
Email: nipaislam2@yahoo.co.uk
Phone: +07908800304
New Professional <4 years

I am a writer/director based in Medway.  My background is in commercial media.  I have worked for a studio and a number of production companies in various roles in distribution, research and marketing. I  now juggle writing as well as working for a local education company supporting young people with learning difficulties/and or autism. Last Autumn 2023, I took part in the BFI NETWORK South East’s Creative Production Weekender and am now looking to produce my first short this year.

The Sew In Group CIC

The Sew In Group CIC

Crafts

The Sew In Group CIC

The Sew In Group CIC

Crafts

Name: The Sew In Sew Group CIC
Email: info@thesewingroup.com
Website: www.thesewingroup.com
Phone: +447931178447
Professional <4 years

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The Sew In Group is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company (CIC) providing a warm and welcoming space for individuals of all ages to come together, unleash their creativity, and learn the art of sewing. We’re driven by a deep-rooted passion for community engagement and accessibility, firmly believing that exposure to creativity can inspire and empower individuals from all walks of life. Founder Naomi’s love for sewing and community engagement inspired her to establish The Sew In Group CIC. With a background in design and entrepreneurship, and nurtured by her family’s fabric shop upbringing, Naomi envisioned a space where people of all skill levels could explore their creativity together. At the core of our mission lies a commitment to inclusivity and community involvement. From our cozy studio in Strood, Kent, to our outreach programs in schools and community venues, we strive to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all sewing enthusiasts. Our recent Sew 4 Charity events underscore our dedication to sewing and giving back to the community. Through initiatives like supporting Macmillan Cancer Support and The Hygiene Bank Medway, we aim to make a positive impact beyond our studio walls. Join us at The Sew In Group CIC, where sewing education meets community empowerment, and creativity knows no bounds.

Melanie Hopkins

Melanie Hopkins

Advertising & Marketing, Music & performing arts

Melanie Hopkins

Melanie Hopkins

Advertising & Marketing, Music & performing arts

Name: Melanie Hopkins
Email: melaniehopkinsactor@gmail.com
Phone: 07714510936
New Professional <4 years

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Born in Sheffield but moving to Medway in 2023, I have spent the last 3 years as a self employed actor, playwright and producer.

I successfully created and produced: “Karma Leon’s Kabaret” an LGBTQIA+ variety cabaret evening filled with camp and rebellious burlesque, drag, magic, circus, singing and comedy. Out of 12 shows in a long running year, six were sold out and one as part of the “Sheffield Showcase Festival”. Here I also started to perfect my hosting repertoire and took a keen interest in the art of Drag.
www.facebook.com/karmaleonkabaret

I also produced “Sheffield Monologue Showcase” which comprised of 20 local actors competing to win an actor’s package of agency sessions, which were judged by a panel of industry professionals. This was gratefully funded buy The Arts and Culture Worker Fund back in 2022.

My playwriting work has appeared on stages such as the York Theatre Royal, The Lantern Theatre and more. And my acting work has appeared on BBC’s Tomorrows World and Channel 4.

The Big Cheese

The Big Cheese

Design (product, graphic, fashion), Music & performing arts

The Big Cheese

The Big Cheese

Design (product, graphic, fashion), Music & performing arts

bigcheese.artsandentertainment@gmail.com
07514683020
New professional (< 4 years)

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The Big Cheese Company (Jack Coleman & Ernesto Moisei-Gallardo) is a DIY arts events organiser based and working in Medway. Helmed by two young queer artists, Jack and Ernesto, our project’s aim is to provide a platform for alternative, left-field, and grassroots artists. The Big Cheese Company hosts diverse creative voices from across the Medway and Kent area, working with local businesses and venues to carve out more spaces where creativity can flourish, producing a more cohesive and inclusive arts community.

The Big Cheese Company emphasises fun and creativity within our branding and event spaces. Ernesto’s (@Ecamoga) amazing illustration work constitutes The Big Cheese’s visual identity and reflects our ethos of joy, irreverence, and authentic self expression. They are open for illustration and graphic design commissions!

Currently The Big Cheese Company works primarily as a music promoter in the Medway area with their ‘Kicking Against Nothing’ programming. These are shows which celebrate the output of contemporary Medway musicians, artists and spaces, whilst commemorating the history of the arts in the Medway towns; re-invoking the spirit of Medway music, whilst revitalising the scene with new influences.

The Big Cheese Company’s services/activities currently include:
– Music Promotion
– Booking
– Social media content creation
– In-house artist, available for commissions (@Ecamoga- poster design, animator, illustrator, cartoonist)

Mark Rose

Mark Rose

Mark Rose

Mark Rose

mark.rose@bemix.org
www.bemix.org
07419113773

Professional (> 4 years)

I work for bemix, a not for profit social enterprise that works with, and for people with learning disabilities and or autism. We are based here in Medway and help young adults to gain meaningful employment in their aspirational careers.

We support them to “be seen, be heard and belong in society as equals”.

Emma Thirkill-Kirk

Emma Thirkill-Kirk

Crafts, Design (product, graphic, fashion), Film, TV, Video, Radio, Photography

Emma Thirkill-Kirk

Emma Thirkill-Kirk

Crafts, Design (product, graphic, fashion), Film, TV, Video, Radio, Photography

Workshop Leader

emma_thirkill@yahoo.com
www.emmatk.com
07967947485

Professional (>4 years)

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I’m a multimedia content producer which includes graphic design, video production, photography and illustration.

I currently work for a public health organisation where I produce print and online design work, videos and motion graphics. I’m also a mural artist and illustrator on a freelance basis.

Tracey M Carvill

Tracey M Carvill

Crafts, Publishing

Tracey M Carvill

Tracey M Carvill

Crafts, Publishing

traceymcarvill@gmail.com
www.traceymcarvill.co.uk
07899915173

New Professional

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Author of horror and dark fantasy published through SmashBear Publishing. Debut novel ‘Children of the Tithe’ available online: https://amzn.eu/d/9eZ1SBd.

Georgia Caley

Georgia Caley

Design (product, graphic, fashion)

Georgia Caley

Georgia Caley

Design (product, graphic, fashion)

Name: Georgia Caley
Email: georgiacaleyartwork@gmail.com
Phone: 07527174251
New professional (< 4 years)

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I am a professional artist who loves to experiment with a variety of media. Including oils, acrylics, 3D art and digital art. I showcase my portfolio on my instagram page. I am hoping for private or corporate commissions or a creative role in the art industry. I am soon to be exhibiting at The Holy Art gallery in London.

Karen Scott, futureCoders SE

Karen Scott, futureCoders SE

IT, video games, software

Karen Scott, futureCoders SE

Karen Scott, futureCoders SE

IT, video games, software

Email: karen@futurecoders.org.uk
Website: https://www.futurecoders.org.uk
Phone: 07791769048
Professional

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I work with code to produce web and data apps.  Each app is produced by a team consisting of professionals and people who are making the transition from education to work (or, in some cases, to the next stage of education).

To help people to get to the stage where they can make a really useful contribution to an app, we also run courses in Python Programming for Beginners/Improvers, Python Projects, Data with Python and Maths with Python.

Project links:
White Rose Heating website project:  https://www.whiteroseheating.co.uk/
What’s It Like? (a platform for people with autism): https://www.whatsitlike.co.uk/
Restoration Trust Interactive Annual Report: https://rt-annual-report.s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/index.html

Maggie Osborn

Maggie Osborn

Crafts, Design (product, graphic, fashion)

Maggie Osborn

Maggie Osborn

Crafts, Design (product, graphic, fashion)

maggieosborn@hotmail.co.uk
www.osoarty.co.uk
07976646606

Professional > 4 years

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A Nucleus artist who practises art and sculpture. I am a trained theatre designer. I sculpt in clay and work with all media in my art.

Avril Brown

Avril Brown

Design (product, graphic, fashion), Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

Avril Brown

Avril Brown

Design (product, graphic, fashion), Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

a.bown@fashion.arts.ac.uk
www.avrilbown.com
07710622414

Professional

Creator of events, exhibitions & marketing strategy across creative industries.

Passionate Educator across Creative Education.

Full time Lecturer & Year 1 Tutor UAL-LCF

Central Saint Martins Graduate (MA)

Previous work examples available on my online portfolio www.avrilbown.com

Jaye Nolan / Rochester Literature Festival

Jaye Nolan / Rochester Literature Festival

Film, TV, Video, Radio, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Music & performing arts

Jaye Nolan / Rochester Literature Festival

Jaye Nolan / Rochester Literature Festival

Film, TV, Video, Radio, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Music & performing arts

rochesterlitfest@gmail.com
www.rochesterlitfest.com
07904 643770

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I’m the Festival Director of Rochester Literature Festival, which I founded in 2011 as a website to collate writing competions, before collaborating with others to produce events from 2012 onwards. Our latest strand is Murderous Medway, a crime writing festival. We haven’t yet organised another since coming out of lockdown, but we did host a ‘cosy crime’ panel in the recent Medway RiverLit. https://rochesterlitfest.com/murderous-medway-crime-writing-festival-2019/

My ‘day’ job is managing The Net Community Hub, (https://waldersladehub.org/) a small community charity  combatting loneliness and social isolation in Walderslade. We run a number of different activities, including arts and crafts.

On a personal level, I’ve been a freelance writer for over fifteen years and currently have a comedy idea under option with producers, and a film script under consideration with two different producers.

Kirstin Miller, Biz Support

Kirstin Miller, Biz Support

Kirstin Miller, Biz Support

Kirstin Miller, Biz Support

Kirstin Miller
kirstin@coregreen.co.uk
www.coregreen.co.uk
07867794784

Professional

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I provide a complete business administration service working with a number of local organisations, the majority of which are in the creative, charity and small business sector.

The culture and arts within Medway has expanded hugely within the last 13/14 years and I am keen to use my business experience to support these areas. Several years ago I set up on my own as I wanted to work within my own community to help make a difference.

Pauline Holmes

Pauline Holmes

Music & performing arts

Pauline Holmes

Pauline Holmes

Music & performing arts

forgetfulpoet@talktalk.net
www.paulineholmes.co.uk
01634 234566

New professional (<4 years)


Pauline Holmes is a post-menopausal poet, performer and playwright from Rainham, with the mind of a child and the eyesight of someone much older.

She’s been commissioned to write for various projects including some run by Wordsmithery, the Marlowe Theatre and Canterbury Cathedral where she is part of their storytelling team.

Pauline is equally at home writing sensitively about complex subjects such as loneliness and death as she is weaving tales around the toilet habits of farting medieval knights and the trials and tribulations of dog ownership. Her debut poetry collection Talk to the Paw, written unashamedly for those at their happiest when covered in dog hair was published by Whisky & Beards. It was also the basis for the solo show she took to the Edinburgh Fringe.

Pauline has written articles for various publications including The Bookseller, and featured in Woman magazine (OK, so maybe that’s not a particularly cool boast for a past winner of the Kent Poetry Slam Championship, but hey, don’t knock it, publicity is publicity!)

Her latest project, a play about Chatham’s 19th Century Lion Queen, will debut at the GlassBox Theatre in June 2023 as part of Medway River Lit Fest.

Joanne Dunphy

Joanne Dunphy

Film, TV, Video, Radio

Joanne Dunphy

Joanne Dunphy

Film, TV, Video, Radio

Joanne Dunphy
joannedunphy@hotmail.com
07814857114

New professional

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I trained as a boom operator working in the sound department for film and tv. In 2017 I went back to school to study screenwriting at The London Film School.

Red Lighthouse Local 

Red Lighthouse Local 

Advertising & Marketing

Red Lighthouse Local 

Red Lighthouse Local 

Advertising & Marketing

Emma Bolt
emmabolt14@hotmail.co.uk
07521 251061

New professional

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I am a freelancer for content creation and my business was set up in April 2023.

Miss Ava’s Millinery

Miss Ava’s Millinery

Design (product, graphic, fashion)

Miss Ava’s Millinery

Miss Ava’s Millinery

Design (product, graphic, fashion)

Miss Ava’s Millinery by Sarah Blacker-Barrowman

07795992375
www.missavasmillinery.com
Newsletter: https://www.missavasmillinery.com/subscribe

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Miss Ava’s Millinery is the headwear label of Australian-born Medway-based milliner Sarah Blacker-Barrowman, established in 2014.

Sarah uses traditional hat making skills to handcraft all of her hats, fascinators, headpieces and veils, with each piece blocked and sewn by hand in her studio. Her headwear creations include classic everyday fedoras for all genders, stylish hats for weddings, and easy to wear fascinators, through to more statement and whimsical headpieces for photoshoots and exhibitions.

Sarah undertakes bespoke commissions, working with you to create a piece of headwear that’s just perfect for your personal style, outfit and occasion. She also has a selection of ready to wear pieces available from her website or from her studio.

She also undertakes repairs and customisation projects, helping to give your headwear a new lease of life.

Visits to Sarah’s studio in Sun Pier House in Chatham are by appointment, which can be booked via her website (https://www.missavasmillinery.com/booking-calendar/studio-appointment-with-sarah) or by calling 077 9599 2375.

Kieran Poole

Kieran Poole

Film, TV, Video, Radio, Publishing

Kieran Poole

Kieran Poole

Film, TV, Video, Radio, Publishing

Kieran Poole
kieran@rubbishidea.co.uk
www.rubbishidea.co.uk

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I have built a plethora of experience in both sport and current-affairs storytelling, including at BBC Radio 2, as well as a decade performing stand-up comedy. Recently, I have turned my storytelling skills into lecturing and content creation.

I seem reasonable at those but what is certainly unreasonable is the amount of litter I see on a daily basis. Therefore, my current project “Rubbish Snooker” aims to reduce the number of plastic lids littered. I create mosaic art out of littered and upcycled lids and ring-pulls atop my outdoor pool table. I then sell these on canvases which are made out of recycled plastic bottles (PET fibres).

Simone Mardell Social Media

Simone Mardell Social Media

Advertising & Marketing

Simone Mardell Social Media

Simone Mardell Social Media

Advertising & Marketing

Simone Mardell
info@simonemardell.co.uk
www.simonemardell.co.uk
07946305562

Professional

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I help creative businesses reach their target audience using inclusive and accessible digital marketing – www.simonemardell.co.uk.

I specialise in helping creative businesses use best practices for reaching partially sighted, blind, deaf and neurodiverse audiences.

My clients include artists, jewellery designers, festival production companies and theatre companies, to name a few.

I live and work in Rochester and am passionate about all things Medway!

Live Music Now

Live Music Now

Music & performing arts

Live Music Now

Live Music Now

Music & performing arts

Live Music Now is a charity working and campaigning to create inclusive, measurable social impact through music. We employ and…

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Live Music Now is a charity working and campaigning to create inclusive, measurable social impact through music. We employ and train over 300 professional musicians to work with disabled children and young people, older people, families, and carers and key workers supporting others. We reach 85,000 people a year, in person and online, performing, collaborating on, and creating music through 1:1 and group sessions in communities, care settings, special schools, hospitals and hospices.

Loop Dance Company

Loop Dance Company

Music & performing arts

Loop Dance Company

Loop Dance Company

Music & performing arts

Loop Dance Company is the resident dance company at The Brook Theatre in Chatham. The Artistic Director, Nina Atkinson, and…

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Loop Dance Company is the resident dance company at The Brook Theatre in Chatham.

The Artistic Director, Nina Atkinson, and six dancers create contemporary repertory work for touring, often working with internationally renowned guest choreographers.

Loop also has an extensive dance education programme, for people who have never danced before, to professional dancers who want to perfect their skills. The company is supported by a team of administrative staff and a board of trustees.

We are currently touring the country performing ‘Encounters’ which consists of two existing pieces ‘Ports That Pass’ choreographed by Sivan Rubinstein, ‘Hanging Heavy’ choreographed by Artistic Director Nina Atkinson and the all new ‘The Unbearable Lightness of Being’ by Luke Birch. For more information and to find out where you can see Encounters see here http://loopdancecompany.co.uk/encounters-tour-2023/

Konstanty Mvrzynski

Konstanty Mvrzynski

Design (product, graphic, fashion)

Konstanty Mvrzynski

Konstanty Mvrzynski

Design (product, graphic, fashion)

Konstanty Mvrzynski Atelier approaches contemporary dress from an architectural and engineering based approach in relation to anatomical cut and construction,…

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Konstanty Mvrzynski Atelier approaches contemporary dress from an architectural and engineering based approach in relation to anatomical cut and construction, resulting in timelessness and balance utilising traditional and innovative methodology of the Haute Couture atelier. We are established at No. 361 High Street, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1DA, where we produce our design on bespoke basis. https://www.notjustalabel.com/konstanty-mvrzynski 

New professional (< 4 years)

Esther Johnson

Esther Johnson

Advertising & Marketing, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

Esther Johnson

Esther Johnson

Advertising & Marketing, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

Advertising & Marketing, Architecture, Design (product, graphic, fashion), Museums, galleries, libraries and heritageWorking with Museums and Charities to create bespoke…

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Advertising & Marketing, Architecture, Design (product, graphic, fashion), Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage
Working with Museums and Charities to create bespoke designs for their gift shop.
Through hand drawn illustrations ‘Designed by Esther’ aims to tell their story with bright and contemporary design.
Clients include The Natural History Museum, House of Commons and Canterbury Cathedral.

Professional (> 4 years)

Michi Masumi

Michi Masumi

Photography

Michi Masumi

Michi Masumi

Photography

Workshop Leader

Based in Twydall, Michi is a photographer with over 20 years of desktop publishing.Photography, Workshop LeaderPhotographer, Poet, and Artist Graphic…

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Based in Twydall, Michi is a photographer with over 20 years of desktop publishing.
Photography, Workshop Leader
Photographer, Poet, and Artist

Graphic design and start-up business consultant

BA & MA in Photography

Starting my doctorate in Autumn 2023

Twydall based

Sam Rapp

Sam Rapp

Sam Rapp

Sam Rapp

Workshop Leader

Sam Rapp is a neurodiverse writer public speaker, and disability advocate, performing as the (The Dyslexic Poet). A playwright and…

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Sam Rapp is a neurodiverse writer public speaker, and disability advocate, performing as the (The Dyslexic Poet). A playwright and short story writer, Co-Founder of Medway Writes. Sam conduct’s creative writing workshops for children and families, making writing fun with her company Fun with Words Productions/Publishing.

Sam is published in various books, anthologies performed internationally and taken her one woman show to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival (The Amazing Dyslexic poetry show), she has appeared on a regular basis for BBC radio Kent.  One of her plays aired on Gibraltar TV. Sam raise’s awareness about disabilities, promoting inclusion and accessibility within the creative sector. Sam is Co-Chair for creative people and a Medway Champion for Creative Medway.

Recent projects

1) Circle of Six a project by Medway Libraries, about 6 inspirational women from Gillingham -Fun with Words are editing the children’s book for this.
2) Creative Estuary Ideas lab-Sam’s company worked with other creatives on an educational project about climate change and human rights which was exhibited and conducted a poetry performance
3) Poetry Fit for a King for the Coronation for Medway Libraries, Sam’s company conducted a creative writing workshop, the students work will be exhibited
4) Poet -Tree children’s competition, where her company was invited to select the entries and Sam was one of the Judges for the project
5) NHS Project-Get writing for the NHS -Sam’s company published a book of poetry called “Rainbows in a Jar”
6) Headline poet for Medway Fashion week 2023
7) The Ghosts Of Other Things Creative writing workshop

Sam’s book is called “Rant, Dyslexic me” about her journey through poetry with Dyslexia.

Rochester and West Kent Art Society

Rochester and West Kent Art Society

Rochester and West Kent Art Society

Rochester and West Kent Art Society

Rochester and West Kent Art Society (R&WKAS) is a thriving community of artists centred around the historic city of Rochester….

Rochester and West Kent Art Society (R&WKAS) is a thriving community of artists centred around the historic city of Rochester. The society’s membership is made up of amateur and professional artists from a wide range of backgrounds and artistic styles, working in many different mediums. Members meet to share ideas, attend workshops and demonstrations, and exhibit their work in public exhibitions.

A key goal is to promote the arts to a wider audience and to encourage participation in the arts within the local community. The society’s exhibitions, which are held throughout the year, offer visitors the opportunity to view and purchase a wide range of original artworks, from traditional landscapes to contemporary abstract pieces.

Rochester and West Kent Art Society also runs workshops, talks, and demonstrations by local and visiting artists. These events provide members with opportunities to learn new techniques, experiment with varied materials, and gain inspiration from other artists. We meet on the 3rd Thursday of the month from September to June, between 7 – 9.30 pm, at The Vines Church in the heart of Rochester. During the summer months the society also runs weekly outdoor sketching and painting sessions in a wide range of locations.

Emily Crosby Media

Emily Crosby Media

Film, TV, Video, Radio

Emily Crosby Media

Emily Crosby Media

Film, TV, Video, Radio

Film, TV, Video, RadioI create engaging entertainment and branded podcasts.I’m based in Chatham, and am keen to forge links with…

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Film, TV, Video, Radio
I create engaging entertainment and branded podcasts.
I’m based in Chatham, and am keen to forge links with local creatives to make new shows.

Listen to three of my favourite projects here –
Straight to the Comments https://podfollow.com/1671951846
An entertainments series that dives head first into the comedic value and the deeper meaning of gossip and why we can’t get enough.
The Latte Lounge Podcast https://podfollow.com/the-latte-lounge-podcast
A branded show that explores midlife with our expert guests, helping you to feel empowered and supported during perimenopause, menopause and beyond.
Being Luminary https://podfollow.com/being-luminary
A branded show where we explore diversity, equity, and inclusion through the lens of marginalised and intersectional identities.

Nucleus Arts

Nucleus Arts

Nucleus Arts

Nucleus Arts

Professional (> 4 years)Crafts, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Workshop LeaderNucleus Arts is the Award Winning flagship arts charity founded…

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Professional (> 4 years)
Crafts, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Workshop Leader
Nucleus Arts is the Award Winning flagship arts charity founded by the Halpern Charitable Foundation in 2002. Nucleus Arts has become the cultural and creative heart of Medway & Kent and focuses on affordability, accessibility and excellence in the Arts.

We are home to over 35 artist studios, two galleries, and facilities such as a digital work space and kiln. Our Community Engagement team run regular creative workshops and events for all ages and abilities.

Nucleus Arts creative projects can be found at nucleusarts.com/project.

D-Live! Theatre

D-Live! Theatre

D-Live! Theatre

D-Live! Theatre

Professional (> 4 years)Film, TV, Video, Radio, Music & performing arts, Workshop LeaderD-Live! – A deaf-led theatre company set up…

Professional (> 4 years)
Film, TV, Video, Radio, Music & performing arts, Workshop Leader
D-Live! – A deaf-led theatre company set up in August 2015 with two main strands of work – theatrical productions and literacy art & theatre/media development work.  This is crucial to us.  The Deaf community is a geographically diverse community, based all over the UK.

We have been supported by Grants for the Arts from ACE and other lottery bodies funding on regular activities and have seen our theatre work toured around England in festivals, theatre venues and community centres. In December 2018, we created, produced and performed a sold out theatrical production of “Scrooge” which embedded a feature film within a theatre production with a live actor.  It was performed at Camden People’s Theatre and the Sun Pier House which we again produced this revival show on larger scale terms of set, design, film and national tour in 2022/23 with huge success reviews and numbers of audiences.

We provided theatre and art workshops for families and in schools to encourage literacy amongst deaf and hearing children. For example we successfully embarked on a 2 years project under BigD Collection Stories of series workshops facilitated with Frank Barnes School for Deaf Children and the House of Illustration & national school uk tour from 2020 to 2021 which we hope enable to do Vol.2 project with All Faith’s school from end of 2023-25.

The word 'together' reflected onto a building in lights

Electric Medway

IT, video games, software, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Music & performing arts

The word 'together' reflected onto a building in lights

Electric Medway

IT, video games, software, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Music & performing arts

Workshop Leader

Professional

kevin@electricmedway.org
electricmedway.org

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Electric Medway is an award-winning arts organisation working with communities and new technology across Medway.

We believe everyone is a digital storyteller. Our mission is to enable communities in Medway to be creative with technology and the arts, through activities that are open to all. Our vision is to make Medway an innovative and exciting place to live, work, learn and visit.

Every year, our flagship Electric Medway Festival provides free shows, exhibitions, workshops and trails for the public in libraries, schools, museums, shops and online, alongside work experience for young people.

Electric Medway Hack is our free skills development programme for local young people, artists and educators, providing masterclasses in the latest technologies including virtual reality, that are not normally accessible or affordable.

In 2022, we put live experimental music on a Soviet Submarine in Strood, made Blue Heritage Cranes talk via text message, and created Medway’s first augmented reality boat ride on the River Medway.

Founded in 2015 by Kevin Grist (Creative Director) and Janet Moore (Executive Director), Electric Medway is known for its strong partnerships and commitment to tell immersive stories from Medway’s diverse neighbourhoods, heritage and folklore.

Ideas Test logo

Ideas Test

Music & performing arts

Ideas Test logo

Ideas Test

Music & performing arts

Professional

contact@ideastest.co.uk
www.ideastest.co.uk
01634477371

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Ideas Test is one of Arts Council England’s Creative People and Places National Portfolio Organisations. We work across Medway and Swale to aid more communities to be involved in arts and culture.

Working directly with under-represented communities, we co-create and deliver projects and programmes that amplify their voice and give them more opportunities to lead creative lives.

Ideas Test is a small team with diverse skills in arts and culture and work collaboratively with other organisations, charities and groups to create ambitious and imaginative work.

Our projects include:

Make Waves – a programme for young creative producers in Medway aged 18-24.


Medway Light Nights lantern parade – in collaboration with Cohesion Plus and Intra Arts, local schools made lanterns which were a main part of the parade that launched 2022 & 2023’s Medway Light Nights festival.


Invigorate – a series of projects that give people the power to create arts events in their neighbourhood, starting with Highway of Dreams, a project from Applied Stories on Luton Road in Chatham.

The Right Step Dance Company logo

Rebecca Ashton

Music & performing arts

The Right Step Dance Company logo

Rebecca Ashton

Music & performing arts

Workshop Leader

Professional

rebecca.ashton@therightstepdc.co.uk
www.therightstepdc.co.uk
07850644633

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We are a team of dance artists working together to delivery high quality, well organised dance sessions for people At Any Age, For Any Ability.

As a team, we are able to offer a huge range of dance styles. Active Armchairs (seated dance), Educating Dance (cross-curricular dance) and TRS Tots (Dance with development in mind) are exclusive to The Right Step. We like a challenge so please get in touch if you have a dance idea.

We work with schools, care homes, youth groups, local councils, events organisers and many more.

You can read about some of our recent projects, events and regular dance lessons in our blog.

We absolutely love what we do, we get to experience magic moments all the time and love to work with individuals to encourage movement, inspiration and excitement. From the smallest movement to an invigorating workshop, it’s a varied and exciting job!

Becky Farley Headshot

Becky Farley

Music & performing arts

Becky Farley Headshot

Becky Farley

Music & performing arts

Professional

becky.farley@midkent.ac.uk
www.glassboxtheatre.com
01634383388

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I am the Director of Community & Civic Engagement at MidKent College responsible for venue hire across all of our campuses in Medway and Maidstone including Glassbox Theatre.

Group of faces with different expressions

Fat Lady Opera

Design (product, graphic, fashion), Music & performing arts

Group of faces with different expressions

Fat Lady Opera

Design (product, graphic, fashion), Music & performing arts

Professional

fatladyopera@gmail.com
www.fatladyopera.com
07775507713

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Develop and deliver new opera and performing arts related works that are inclusive and relevant and which aim to break new ground.

Sun Pier House logo

Sun Pier House CIC

Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

Sun Pier House logo

Sun Pier House CIC

Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

Professional

info@sunpierhouse.co.uk
www.sunpierhouse.co.uk
01634401549

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Sun Pier House CIC (SPH) is family run, not-for-profit arts organisation formed in 2013 to support Medway’s creative industries. SPH is home to a gallery, café, staging area, events spaces, community hire spaces, and 24 artist studios. Alongside the buildings facilities, we deliver a varied public arts programme, including large scale festivals, arts markets, film screenings, family workshops, a developing Art Bank and a Youth Outreach Programme, offering bespoke art days to young people from deprived and culturally unengaged households. SPH believe that investment in culture and arts organisations, can help improve lives, regenerate neighbourhoods, support local economies, create stronger communities, and inspire change.

Natasha Steer Headshot

Natasha Steer

Crafts, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

Natasha Steer Headshot

Natasha Steer

Crafts, Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage

Workshop Leader

Professional

natasha@creatabot.co.uk
www.creatabot.co.uk
07460936934

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Hello! My name is Natasha and I am a creative practitioner specialising in arts, health and community engagement. This means I love to help people be more creative which can also help them feel better about themselves and where they live. I currently have a contract with Live Well Kent and Medway to run creative sessions with a small team, supporting mental health in Medway. I also help organisations with community engagement, with coming together for arts and health projects and becoming more accessible. Within the term ‘creativity’ I also include cooking sessions, which I have run for Medway Youth Service, and heritage, having co-created the St Barts Hospital Project and Featherstones Memories Project with George Atzev of Future Chatham, funded by Historic England through the High Street Heritage Action Zone.

Daniel Loveday Headshot

Daniel Loveday

Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Photography

Daniel Loveday Headshot

Daniel Loveday

Museums, galleries, libraries and heritage, Photography

Workshop Leader

Professional

danielloveday@hotmail.co.uk
www.danielloveday.com
0784798345

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I currently work at Comic Relief as a photographer and visual coordinator where I manage the incoming content, checking quality, inputting metadata and uploading to our Digital Asset Management system. I work with national and international photographers, often commissioning them for documentary/commercial shoots as well as leading on high profile celebrity shoots myself. I am very interested in working with archives and so now also lead on curating and managing the photography archive at Comic Relief where I migrate appropriate content to Getty Images for syndication.
Previously I worked with the British Library, digitising a vast historic archive focused on the Gulf Region with documents dating from the 1500’s. Regularly working with a wide selection of materials; photographs, postcards and other printed objects as well as sketches, drawings and watercolours; etchings, engravings and illustrations, maps, Arabic Scientific Manuscripts as well as a large amount of documents from the India Office Records that span the period 1763–1951.

I am an experienced Photographer with a demonstrated history working in the photography industry. Strong design professional with a Bachelor focused in Photography from Canterbury Christ Church University, focusing design into curatorial projects, print and publication.

Recent projects:

Visit the website for recent work

Emergency Exit Arts Logo

Emergency Exit Arts

Music & performing arts

Emergency Exit Arts Logo

Emergency Exit Arts

Music & performing arts

Workshop Leader

Professional

info@eea.org.uk
eea.org.uk
02088534809

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Emergency Exit Arts (EEA) is one of Britain’s pioneering outdoor arts companies, creating magical experiences in the places where you live, learn, work and play. We reinvigorate communities, give people a voice and challenge the ordinary.


EEA are clear about what it is we want to achieve and how we are going to achieve it. Our vision is to inspire change through creativity. We will do this by:
•    Enhancing places by making dynamic and surprising work in the public realm
•    Enabling people to be creative and confident
•    Astonishing audiences with moments of wonder

Recent projects:

Medway Light Nights

Love Ashford Programme Events

Edible Grimsby

Hi Street Fest Historic England Heritage Action Zones

Medway Pride Radio Logo

Shea Anya Coffey

Film, TV, Video, Radio

Medway Pride Radio Logo

Shea Anya Coffey

Film, TV, Video, Radio

Workshop Leader

Professional

sheacoffey074@gmail.com
medwayprideradio.co.uk
07816646126

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Medway Pride Radio (MPR) is more than just a radio station, while we broadcast 24/7 providing Music, community news poetry, comedy and chat, we also create community across Medway, Kent and the UK.
Off air we campaign on health and social issue not just for the LGBT+ community but for everyone. We run an art workshop which is a safe space for all young people. We have been providing LGBT+ books for libraries and secondary schools across Medway and the the UK. We have created the first Medway LGBT+ awards and are in the process of creating an memorial.


Last year we brought Stonewall riot participant Mark Segal the the UK for his first ever visit to the UK and this summer will see Canadian author Amanda Jette Knox visit for there first ever visit. We worked this spring with the Terrence Higgins Trust on the 40th Anniversary AIDS march, and we regularly work with Stonewall UK, Trans in the City, NAM AIDS Map, Wandsworth OASIS, Gillingham Street Angels, Wisdom Hospice and more. We also do Medway Pride!

Recent Projects:

Offering secondary schools in Medway a free copy of ‘Trans Teen Survival Guide’ to celebrate LGBT+ History Month

Medway Pride events

Part of a growing coalition committed to ending HIV stigma

Hannah Whittaker profile picture

Hannah Whittaker

Crafts, Film, TV, Video, Radio, Music & performing arts

Hannah Whittaker profile picture

Hannah Whittaker

Crafts, Film, TV, Video, Radio, Music & performing arts

Workshop Leader

New professional

hannahgwhittaker@gmail.com
www.hannahwhittaker.com
07714021017

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Hannah Whittaker is a performance maker and installation artist, creating interactive installations, one on one encounters and digital performances. The form of her work may fluctuate from high-tech digital installations to very basic one to one encounters, but her focus is always on creating an experience. She concentrates on interactivity as a means to facilitate dialogues that explore topics around the human condition.


She seeks to produce work that directly engages people both physically and emotionally, striving to give them an experience that will impact lives post-performance. Many of her past works have resembled a kind of therapy, asking audience members to engage in personal discussion and disclosure. While she likes to address issues and topics that have an element of gravitas she does so in a deliberately playful way that charms audiences.


Hannah has also been a facilitator of community art projects for over a decade, working across various disciplines including digital art, installation, sculpture, animation and performance. Alongside her artistic practice she has taught and led workshops in various contexts; ranging from holiday clubs to universities, working across all ages and abilities.

Recent projects:

Drawing on Wisdom

Sky Above the Scene

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