Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in the arts?

I really struggled in school, but always loved art and music lessons. Being creative was a great outlet for me as a child and I took this love all the way to university where I studied Fine Art, then an MA in Curating. Since then, I’ve worked as a freelance Project Manager with different museums, art galleries and community-based charities helping to make the arts more accessible to everyone.

What initially drew you to Artis, and how did you become a part of this organisation?

After a few short-term projects I was looking for something new to really get my teeth stuck into. I would have completely adored Artis when I was in school, and their plans to expand through a digital, Netflix-style streaming service struck me as something schools in more rural or disadvantaged areas would really benefit from. Luckily, they were looking for someone with a similar skill set to mine to help manage this new online offering, and I started working here about two years ago!

What does a normal workday look like for you?

I mostly work from home, so each day starts with a cup of tea and checking my emails. After that, things are varied. My main role is to ensure everything is running smoothly, on time and on budget. My days often include meeting with Rebecca, Artis’ Chief Executive and Co-Founder, where we catch up on how everything is going.

As there are different strands to the project, I get to be involved with many different parts – lots of juggling involved! I might be helping with planning video content and sourcing props, working with the web team to develop the platform, updating spreadsheets and budgets, or meeting with our wonderful Steering Group to problem-solve and plan.

What do you love most about your job at Artis?

It feels like a real privilege to work for a charity with the mission to nurture creativity in every child everywhere, and to get to do this alongside such a dedicated team of people. I’ve learnt so much since working here and seeing the impact Artis has in schools has only strengthened my belief in the immense importance of an arts-based education. I also love joining shoot days with Prelight Studios and watching specialists perform their magic in person!

Looking towards the future, what are you looking forward to?

It’s super exciting now we’ve launched the platform and I can’t wait for more classes all over the UK to start trying it out! It’s been an incredible journey with input along the way from such talented specialists and advisors, and I’m looking forward to seeing how we grow…