Caroline Boff is an emerging force in the contemporary art scene, a self-taught artist based in North West England who has earned international recognition for her vibrant and emotionally resonant creations. 

Expect laughs, anecdotes, and surprises in our interview.

Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM
Chief Culture Vulture
Arts & Culture Network
www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com
mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com
+44 (0)7947 793 554


Book a 15-minute 121 with me on Zoom:
https://calendly.com/mark-walmsley/mark-walmsley-acn

Join one of our taster sessions on Zoom
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/ourevents

Join our future free networking events on Zoom:
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/ourevents

Watch interviews with our full members:
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/blog

Join us as a full member for "done for you" profile, network, career, and/or business development support for just £10 per month.
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join


Arts and Culture Network LinkedIn group with 69,000 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2895827/

Arts administration group with 22,000 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2779726/

Opportunities, jobs, and careers group with 8,000 members.
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/4109471/

Contemporary art group with 8,400 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2722958/

Theatre professionals' group with 4,000 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/1848248/

Music professionals' group with 3,500 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/4040170/

Art gallery group with 2,500 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2723207/

Painting group with 1,500 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2723173/

Meet Caroline Boff FRSA - abstract artist with heart

Jane Needles, a luminary in the domain of arts administration, brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering zeal for creativity to the forefront of cultural discourse. 

In our enjoyable interview together, I created Jane's fantasy cultural year from the answers to 10 easy questions. Expect some surprises.

Serving as a pivotal member of the Board of Directors at Arts Consultants, Canada, Jane's profound insights and contributions have left an indelible mark on the trajectory of arts initiatives nationwide.

In our conversation, Jane delved into an array of topics pivotal to the advancement of the arts and culture sector. Our conversation traversed from the pragmatic utilisation of AI tools for meeting summaries to the overarching issues of funding disparities and the imperative need for board diversity within organisations.

Rooted in a family steeped in theatrical heritage, Jane's journey in the arts started at an early age. Her eclectic career trajectory, spanning from stage management to production and ultimately arts administration, mirrors her steadfast commitment to the realms of creativity. 

Jane's fluency in both English and French has further enriched her consultancy and mentoring endeavours, transcending linguistic barriers.

Throughout her illustrious career, Jane has remained resolute in her dedication to nurturing the growth of the arts community. Her tenure as a mentor to burgeoning organisations and individuals underscores her unwavering commitment to fostering talent and ensuring a vibrant future for the arts.

Our discourse also delved into the profound impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, which catalysed the adoption of novel strategies and technologies within the arts sector. Jane underscored the significance of embracing innovation while preserving the essence of live performances and exhibitions.

Beyond their professional dialogue, Mark and Jane's exchange extended to their shared passion for cultural exploration and appreciation. From spirited discussions on favoured museums and architectural marvels to insightful exchanges on classical music and ballet, their conversation vividly portrayed the profound impact of arts and culture on society.

Mark crafted a fantasy cultural itinerary for Jane, and together, they embarked on a fictional cultural odyssey funded by a local family foundation. Jane's expertise and enthusiasm promised to shed light on the vibrant tapestry of Italy's arts and culture scene. 

Her insights are eagerly anticipated as she continues to champion the transformative power of the arts in enriching lives and communities worldwide.

In collaboration with Mark and fellow visionaries, Jane remains steadfast in her commitment to shaping a future where creativity flourishes, diversity thrives, and the arts remain an integral facet of the human experience. With her boundless passion and expertise, Jane Needles stands as a beacon of inspiration within the global arts and culture community.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-needles-18344725/


Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM
Chief Culture Connector
Arts & Culture Network
www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com
"Cultivating creative connections"
mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com

A growing, global community of over 120,000.

Join our mailing list:
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/contact

Join me on ZOOM for s 15-minute 121?
https://calendly.com/mark-walmsley/mark-walmsley-acn

Join our free 1-hour arts and culture networking events on ZOOM:
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/ourevents

Watch interviews with our full members:
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/blog

An interview, published and promoted to YouTube, SoundCloud, our website and the 800,000 monthly users of our LinkedIn groups.
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join

Arts and Culture Network LinkedIn group with 77,000 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2895827/


Jane Needles, legendary arts consultant.

Jonva Ven commands a formidable presence in the realms of music and media production. Holding the titles of Co-Host and Co-Producer at Slice of Canada, a radio media outlet dedicated to synthesizing Canadian narratives and championing Canadian music, Jonva showcases his prowess in amplifying voices and cultural representation.

Exploring Jonva's persona through a playful game of This Or That provides a delightful glimpse into his multifaceted life and professional journey.

His path into music production was paved with unwavering dedication and academic rigor. Armed with a Master's degree and a Bachelor of Science in Music Production from the esteemed Berklee College of Music, Jonva honed his skills to perfection.

However, his pursuit of knowledge didn't cease there. Trained as a mentor through The Mentor Collective and a proud member of The International Singer-Songwriters Association, Jonva remains deeply committed to nurturing emerging talent and fostering collaborative growth within the artistic community.

Venturing beyond conventional broadcasting, Jonva serves as the Musical Director at WOMYN IN Three, an avant-garde rock & soul opera that explores the depths of human emotion, particularly through the lens of women's experiences. This role not only showcases Jonva's musical expertise but also reflects his dedication to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.

As an International Music Producer for InfinitZY8entertainment, LLC, Jonva harnesses a global perspective to create captivating sonic landscapes that transcend cultural boundaries.

In addition to his production endeavors, Jonva's impact extends to the digital realm through the "Live Life, Be Happy 24/7" podcast, which garners millions of views monthly, inspiring listeners and spreading positivity.

With expertise spanning songwriting, audio engineering, and professional production, Jonva Ven epitomizes artistic excellence and innovation. His unwavering commitment to nurturing talent and uplifting the artistic community further solidifies his legacy in the world of music and media.

Jonva on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonva-~-913b86228/


Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM
Chief Culture Connector
Arts & Culture Network
www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com
"Cultivating creative connections"
mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com

A growing, global community of over 120,000.

Join our mailing list:
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/contact

Join me on ZOOM for a 15-minute 121?
https://calendly.com/mark-walmsley/mark-walmsley-acn

Join our free 1-hour arts and culture networking events on ZOOM:
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/ourevents

Watch interviews with our full members:
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/blog

An interview, published and promoted to YouTube, SoundCloud, our website and the 800,000 monthly users of our LinkedIn groups.
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join

Arts and Culture Network LinkedIn group with 77,000 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2895827/

Arts administration group with 22,000 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2779726/

Opportunities, jobs, and careers group with 8,000 members.
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/4109471/

Contemporary art group with 8,400 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2722958/

Theatre professionals' group with 4,000 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/1848248/

Music professionals' group with 3,500 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/4040170/

Art gallery group with 2,500 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2723207/

Painting group with 1,500 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2723173/

Jonva Ven, Cultural broadcaster, educator and champion for women's music.

Introducing Adam Hypki, a seasoned Senior Graphic Designer renowned for his expertise in creative direction and mastery of branding and visual identity within the arts and culture sector.

With over two decades of industry experience under his belt, Adam brings a unique fusion of design proficiency and marketing savvy to every project he tackles.

I recently had the pleasure of delving into Adam's portfolio and crafting his Fantasy Cultural Year. Our interaction was not only insightful but also brimming with laughter, as Adam infused our interview with his vibrant energy, sparking lively conversation detours and delightful surprises.

Adam's design journey commenced with a commitment to elevate his craft beyond mere technical proficiency. Armed with a Master of Arts with Distinction in graphic design, complemented by a Master of Science in Marketing and Advertising, Adam's approach to design transcends aesthetics. He delves into the core of business objectives, ensuring that each design decision is strategically aligned.

Proficient across a diverse range of mediums, Adam's skill set encompasses print and digital design, spanning from logos, leaflets, and posters to brochures, menus, infographics, and social media assets, including animated gifs and video editing. His expertise extends to art direction and motion graphics, seamlessly blending creativity with functionality.

Beyond his role as a designer, Adam serves as a strategic partner, guiding clients through the intricacies of branding and visual communication. He invests time in understanding brand identity, offering comprehensive services such as brand development, guardianship, re-branding, and refreshment.

Adam's strategic approach is grounded in thorough research, from exhaustive market analysis to rigorous idea testing, ensuring that his designs resonate with target audiences and elevate brand visibility.

His portfolio exemplifies his talent and commitment, showcasing projects ranging from crafting posters and brochures for esteemed dance companies to leading visual identity and branding initiatives for prestigious cultural festivals.

Whether you seek to redefine your brand image or create compelling social media assets, Adam Hypki is the design virtuoso you can rely on to bring your vision to fruition. For Adam, design transcends superficial aesthetics; it's about driving tangible results and amplifying your brand's impact in the digital landscape.


Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM
Chief Culture Connector
Arts & Culture Network
www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com
"Cultivating creative connections"
mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com

A growing, global community of over 120,000.

Join our mailing list:
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/contact

Join me on ZOOM for a 15-minute 121?
https://calendly.com/mark-walmsley/mark-walmsley-acn

Join our free 1-hour arts and culture networking events on ZOOM:
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/ourevents

Watch interviews with our full members:
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/blog

An interview, published and promoted to YouTube, SoundCloud, our website and the 800,000 monthly users of our LinkedIn groups.
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join



Arts and Culture Network LinkedIn group with 77,000 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2895827/

Arts administration group with 22,000 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2779726/

Opportunities, jobs, and careers group with 8,000 members.
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/4109471/

Contemporary art group with 8,400 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2722958/

Theatre professionals' group with 4,000 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/1848248/

Music professionals' group with 3,500 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/4040170/

Art gallery group with 2,500 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2723207/

Painting group with 1,500 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2723173/

Adam Hypki, branding and graphic design for arts and culture organisations.

Meet Ksenia Kazintseva, a visionary leader in the arts and cultural education sector, serving as the Director of Izba Arts. Renowned for her dedication to promoting Central and Eastern European (CEE) cultural voices, Ksenia has contributed significantly to creating inclusive and safe spaces for underrepresented creative communities through her innovative arts programs and research.

Ksenia Kazintseva is a passionate cultural educator, project manager, and artist with nearly a decade of experience in production, curation, cultural policy, and public engagement. Originally from Moscow and now based in London, Ksenia's work bridges traditional folklore and contemporary practices, fostering an understanding of cultural identity and community connection.

As the CEO of Izba Arts, Ksenia has been instrumental in platforming CEE creatives and challenging the perception that many Central and Eastern Europeans feel about their identities. She has developed and managed a wide range of festivals and arts education projects, including large-scale community festivals and public realm commissions. Her notable projects include an Arts Council England-funded exhibition by Phoebe Boswell and an extensive arts education initiative involving 51 schools and over 2,000 children, culminating in public shows in collaboration with the Royal College of Art.

Ksenia's expertise in strategic leadership and partnership-building has led to significant audience growth and increased engagement in the arts sector. Her skills in fundraising, event management, and education program development have secured substantial grant and donation income for creative projects, ensuring the sustainability and impact of her initiatives.

Throughout her career, Ksenia has worked with a diverse range of organisations, including charities, festivals, museums, galleries, publications, educational institutions, non-profits, and local governments. She has held key positions such as Arts Officer at Richmond and Wandsworth Councils, Producer at Battersea Arts Centre, and Education Coordinator at Saatchi Gallery. Additionally, Ksenia has contributed to the success of the Eastern European Art Week in London, an exclusive network uniting leading auction houses and cultural events to celebrate and promote CEE art.

Ksenia's creative practice spans painting, performance, and immersive installation, with a particular interest in the intersection of tradition and contemporary art. She believes that tradition serves as a unifying universal language, and its preservation is essential for fostering connection and spirituality in modern society.

Under Ksenia's leadership, Izba Arts has become a prominent platform for CEE cultural voices, offering consultancy services to evaluate and enhance engagement with CEE communities. Her work continues to address the intersectional challenges faced by CEE migrants, especially in light of recent geopolitical events such as Brexit and the war in Ukraine.

Ksenia Kazintseva's dedication to cultural education and community engagement has made her a pivotal figure in the arts, inspiring and empowering a new generation of creatives while advocating for a more inclusive and interconnected world.

Ksenia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ksenia-kazintseva/

Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM
Chief Culture Vulture
Arts & Culture Network
www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com
mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbwalmsley/

Ksenia Kazintseva, art at the heart of Europe

Sophie Hamlet is an accomplished auditor and trust accountant, with a dedication to giving back to the arts, not-for-profit and charitable sectors. Currently serving as an Audit Manager at Grant Thornton UK LLP, she provides specialised financial oversight and advisory services to her clients.

It was lovely creating her fantasy cultural year and taking her back to Paris as she enjoyed it so much when she visited at age 14. 

After earning her ACA qualification, Sophie gained substantial experience auditing both corporate and not-for-profit organisations. Her career advanced further when she took on the role of Technical Manager, where she was responsible for delivering internal training on auditing and financial reporting requirements. This role underscored her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of financial integrity and transparency.

At Grant Thornton UK LLP, Sophie is part of a global network that spans 135 countries and employs 58,000 people. The firm is renowned for its ability to combine global scale with local insight, providing clients with comprehensive assurance, tax, and advisory services. In her capacity as Audit Manager, Sophie exemplifies the firm's ethos of going beyond business as usual, fostering strong relationships, and delivering proactive insights.

Sophie's passion for the arts and culture sector is reflected in her volunteer work, where she contributes her financial expertise to several organisations. She serves as a Trustee for Baseless Fabric Theatre, Vice Chair and Head of the Finance Committee for Greenwich Theatre, and Trustee for Total Insight Theatre. These roles allow her to combine her professional skills with her personal passion for supporting the arts, ensuring these organisations thrive financially and operationally.

Sophie Hamlet's career is a testament to her dedication to people, the not-for-profit sector, and the arts. Her work continues to inspire trust and integrity in the markets she serves, contributing to sustainable growth and positive progress.

Sophie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-hamlet-5a8025a7/

Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM
Chief Culture Vulture
Arts & Culture Network
www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com
mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbwalmsley/
 
Book a 15-minute 121 with me on Zoom:
https://calendly.com/mark-walmsley/mark-walmsley-acn
 
Join our future free networking events on Zoom:
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/ourevents
 
Arts and Culture Network LinkedIn group with 79,000 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2895827/
 
Arts administration group with 22,000 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2779726/
 
Opportunities, jobs and careers group with 8,700 members.
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/4109471/
 
Contemporary art group with 9,000 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2722958/
 
Theatre professionals' group with 4,800 members
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/1848248/

Music group with 3,600 members 
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/4040170/ 

Art gallery group with 3,000 members 
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2723207/ 

Painting group with 2,000 members 
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/2723173/

Join us as a full member for "done for you" profile, network, career, and/or business development support for just £10 per month.
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join

Sophie Hamlet, qualified accountant supporting the arts

Introducing Sarah Cavallaro, the dynamic force behind Art Above Ground, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to supporting culture-shifting public art initiatives that provoke thought, foster inclusivity, and infuse the world with playfulness. 

Mark created Sarah's fantasy cultural Year to uncover anecdotes, surprises, laughs and conversational detours.

Sarah's journey is one of evolution, from her tenure as the President and Executive Producer of Emerald Films, a powerhouse in TV commercial production, to her transformative partnership with artist and co-director, Cosimo Cavallaro. 

For over two decades, Sarah cultivated Emerald Films into a beacon of creativity, spotlighting talented directors and crafting countless award-winning TV commercials. Her keen eye for talent and commitment to excellence earned Emerald Films a place in the landscape of the American Dream. 

In the US report “Culture and Community in a Time of Crisis” that surveyed some 124,000 people to take a look at their thoughts on the role of culture. In response to the question, “How would you ideally want arts and culture organisations to help?” The most popular answer was “laugh and relax”, followed by “stay connected”, and“offer distraction and escape”. As the survey summed it up, “art activities that are fun, lighthearted, and beautiful appeal most.” So Art Above Ground is here to do just that through public art installations. 

Together, Sarah and Cosimo breathe life into Art Above Ground, where their mission transcends borders and cultures, speaking a universal language that resonates with people of all ages. Their public art installations, like "Love Your Bean," a vibrant ode to diversity and love, grace communities worldwide, spreading messages of respect, tolerance, and peace. From whimsical jelly bean sculptures to provocative statements like the "Wall of Cheese" at the U.S.-Mexico border, their art challenges perceptions and sparks conversations. 

Sarah's dedication to arts education and social impact mirrors her belief in the transformative power of creativity. Inspired by Nelson Mandela's words, she advocates for a society that nurtures its children through arts education, believing that collaboration between the arts, social impact, and education can pave the way for a brighter future. 

She is also an award-winning novelist with her book "Dogs Have Angels Too". 

With Art Above Ground, Sarah invites you to join her on a journey of exploration, reflection, and transformation. Through playful activism and immersive experiences, she invites us all to be catalysts for social inquiry and positive change in a world that is always in need of more beauty, inclusivity, and joy. 

Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM
Chief Culture Connector
Arts & Culture Network
www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com
"Cultivating creative connections"
mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com

A growing, global community of over 120,000.

Join our mailing list:
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/contact

Join me on ZOOM for a 15-minute 121?
https://calendly.com/mark-walmsley/mark-walmsley-acn

Join our free 1-hour arts and culture networking events on ZOOM:
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/ourevents

Watch interviews with our full members:
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/blog

An interview, published and promoted to YouTube, SoundCloud, our website and the 800,000 monthly users of our LinkedIn groups.
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join


Sarah Cavallaro - art installation dynamo.

Rick Baunacke is the Managing Partner at Stones & Rocks Group, a leading company in the natural stone industry. 

For over three decades, Stones & Rocks Group has been at the forefront of finding and installing high-quality natural stones for various applications, from building exteriors and interiors to sculptures and gardenscapes. Rick's passion for the intersection of nature, design, and architecture drives his work, as he merges these elements seamlessly in every project. 

It was lovely hearing about this and we even took a peek at some of Stones & Rocks' work on the website. I also created Rick's fantasy cultural year and even had time to play The This or That game!

Rick Baunacke developed an early interest in art and culture. This passion for creative expression would later influence his career path. Throughout his schooling, Rick was actively involved in sports, particularly American football, which would become a significant part of his life. Now, Rick balances his professional commitments with his love for American football, playing as a linebacker (#44) for the Berlin Thunder in the European League of Football. Rick’s dedication to the sport, playing it for over 24 years, is evident in his long-standing commitment and performance on the field.

The idea of shaping strong, resilient materials into soft, intricate forms inspired him to pursue opportunities in the natural stone industry, where he could combine his artistic inclinations with sustainable practices.

Rick joined Stones & Rocks Group, a company renowned for its expertise in sourcing and installing natural stones from a global network of quarries. The company’s commitment to merging nature with modern design and architecture aligned perfectly with Rick’s vision. 

At Stones & Rocks, Rick quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming the Managing Partner. In this role, he oversees projects from conception to completion, ensuring that each piece reflects the company’s dedication to quality and sustainability.

Rick’s approach to his work is meticulous and creative. He explains that the process begins with sketching and sampling, allowing for a thorough exploration of possibilities before finalising any project. This attention to detail ensures that every installation meets the high standards for which Stones & Rocks is known. Rick’s leadership has been instrumental in maintaining the company’s reputation for excellence and innovation.

Art and culture remain at the heart of Rick’s personal interests. He enjoys connecting with fellow professional football players, sharing his love for the sport and its cultural significance. Looking ahead, Rick aims to continue advancing the integration of natural stone in modern architecture, pushing the boundaries of design while adhering to sustainable practices.

Through Rick's work at Stones & Rocks and his commitment to American football, he seamlessly blends his roles as a business leader, artist, and athlete.

Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM
Chief Culture Connector
Arts & Culture Network
www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com
"Cultivating creative connections"
mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com

A growing, global community of over 120,000.

Join our mailing list:
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/contact

Join me on ZOOM for a 15-minute 121?
https://calendly.com/mark-walmsley/mark-walmsley-acn

Join our free 1-hour arts and culture networking events on ZOOM:
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/ourevents

Watch interviews with our full members:
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/blog

An interview, published and promoted to YouTube, SoundCloud, our website and the 800,000 monthly users of our LinkedIn groups.
https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join

Rick Baunacke - where stone becomes art

Claire Stadtmueller is a distinguished soprano, director, singer, and concept creator known for her powerful operatic voice and innovative artistic vision. She seamlessly blends classical opera with contemporary issues, using her talents to address pressing matters such as bodily sovereignty and environmental protection.

Creating Claire’s fantasy cultural year and playing The This or That game provided many surprises and it was wonderful having a dive into her work. 

Claire Stadtmueller's journey into the world of music began with her academic pursuits. She holds degrees from the New England Conservatory and the University of Rhode Island. Her vocal talent was further honed under the tutelage of international basso Dimitri Kavrakos, providing her with a strong foundation for her future career.

Her professional breakthrough came with her debut at Carnegie Hall in Beethoven's "Missa Solemnis," where her performance was highly praised by Egon Stadelman of the New Yorker. This success led to further engagements, including performances in Mozart's "Mass in C Minor" and "Requiem" under Maestro David Randolph, where Stadelman noted that her timbre and demeanour was reminiscent of Elisabeth Schwarzkopf.

Claire's career continued to deveop with notable roles such as Tosca in New York's Central Park with the New York Grand Opera under Maestro Vincent La Selva, who subsequently invited her to sing Amelia in Verdi's "Un Ballo in Maschera." Her performances at Carnegie Hall expanded to include Handel's "Israel in Egypt," Mendelssohn's Second Symphony, Bach's "Christmas Oratorio" and "St. Matthew Passion," and Orff's "Carmina Burana."

Her versatility as an opera singer is highlighted by her performances in a wide range of roles, including the title role in Donizetti's "Lucia di Lammermoor," Pamina in Mozart's "The Magic Flute," Fiordiligi in "Cosi fan tutte," and Miss Silverpeal in "The Impresario." She has also played Rosario in Granados' "Goyescas," the Mother in Menotti's "Amahl and the Night Visitors," and the Dew Fairy in Humperdinck's "Hansel and Gretel." Notably, she created the leading role of Persephone in the world premiere of Geoffrey Gibbs' opera "Potnia."

As a recitalist, Claire has performed at Carnegie Hall's Weill Recital Hall, New York City's Trinity Church, for the American Wagner Society in Chicago, and on numerous concert series along the East Coast. Her solo CD, "Sweet Peace," a collection of international songs celebrating peace and lamenting the tragedies of war, has been praised by Frederica von Stade and Ned Rorem as "very beautiful," and has been featured on WGBH Boston, WBAI New York, and WHJJ Providence.

Since 2020, Claire has been exploring new artistic avenues by creating films that utilise her operatic voice to express her concepts. These films address crucial contemporary issues, merging music with visual art to convey powerful messages.

In addition to her artistic endeavours, Claire is deeply committed to advocacy. She co-founded 5G Free RI and serves as the chief citizen lobbyist for the Clean Atmosphere Act, a legislative effort aimed at banning the harmful aerosol spraying of chemicals.

As a voice-over artist, Claire brings a wealth of experience, excelling in delivering performances with a classical, neutral American accent, as well as German-accented English and proficient pronunciation in German, Italian, and French. Her sophisticated and versatile vocal skills allow her to navigate complex pharmaceutical names and adjust her inflection, tempo, and pitch to meet directors' specific needs.

Claire Stadtmueller's multifaceted career and unwavering dedication to her art and advocacy continue to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.

Claire Stadtmueller - Opera singer, voiceover artist, and environmental actavist.

Zsuzsanna Pataki is a distinguished fine artist based in Orpington, England, who specialises in creating bespoke art for individual collectors and corporate spaces. Her work ranges from striking oil portraits to evocative abstract pieces, showcased in many galleries. 

Zsuzsanna's multifaceted career not only includes her personal artistic endeavours but also extends to leading art-based team-building sessions, organising exhibitions, and fostering a collaborative artistic community.

I loved discussing Zsuzsanna's work - her unique perspective for painting on a large scale and how she uses gold and silver in her paintings! It was equally fun creating her fantasy cultural year that pulled out many anecdotes to get to know Zsuzsanna better. 

Born in Hungary, Zsuzsanna Pataki displayed a passion for art from a young age. She learnt about art and visual education at Varosmajori High School in Budapest and pursued a degree in Italian at Eötvös Loránd University, driven by her fascination with Renaissance art and culture. This interdisciplinary approach allowed her to combine her love for art with a thorough understanding of art history and Italian literature.

Zsuzsanna's pursuit of higher education led her to the United States, where she earned both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees at the University of Minnesota. During this period, she honed her teaching skills as a graduate teaching assistant, instructing Italian language courses and managing the Italian department's syllabuses. This experience enriched her ability to communicate complex ideas and nurtured her talent for guiding others.

Despite her initial career path in academia and language instruction, Zsuzsanna's true calling remained in the arts. Her diverse background, combining rigorous academic research with creative expression, significantly influences her artistic process. Each of her paintings is approached as a meticulous study, peeling back layers to reveal deeper insights and stories.

Zsuzsanna's art is characterised by her love of colours, light, and human connections. Her works often explore the interplay between nature and human environments, capturing moments in vibrant acrylic cityscapes, landscapes, and portraits. Beyond her own creations, she is deeply committed to fostering a supportive and interconnected community of artists. She organises and publicises exhibitions, helping to bridge the gap between hardworking artists and art collectors, and advocates for the value of original artworks in an age of mass-produced reproductions.

In addition, Zsuzsanna leads innovative art-based team-building workshops for professionals. These sessions encourage participants to step out of their comfort zones, engage with creative processes, and build new cognitive pathways. Through these workshops, she aims to demonstrate that failure is a step towards victory and to inspire a fresh appreciation for beauty and creativity in everyday life.

Zsuzsanna's work has been exhibited widely across London, with notable solo exhibitions including "Urban Patterns" and "H2O" at Ripley Arts Centre, and group shows at Coolings Garden Centre. She has also been featured at the Affordable Art Fair in Battersea and Hampstead. 

Zsuzsanna Pataki brings a unique blend of academic rigour, creative passion, and community spirit to her work. Her journey reflects her dedication to exploring and expressing the beauty of the world around her. Through her paintings, workshops, and community initiatives, Zsuzsanna continues to inspire and connect with others, leaving a lasting impact on the art world and beyond.

Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM
Chief Culture Vulture
Arts & Culture Network
www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com
mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbwalmsley/

Zsuzsanna Pataki - storytelling fine artist.

Patrick O'Leary: arts commissioner, creative producer, and tireless advocate of equity, diversity, and inclusion. With a heart that beats to the rhythm of the theatre and a mind that strategises like no other, Patrick has spent over four decades infusing the arts with his unyielding passion and visionary leadership.

It was great diving into how Patrick is using theatre for change, especially in helping those with dementia. It was equally great finding out the choices he made when having his fantasy cultural year created. 

Patrick O’Leary pursued this passion for the arts with vigour, earning a BFA in Design and Technical Theatre, as well as a BFA in English and Theatre. These foundational years were not just about learning, they were about envisioning the transformative power of theatre.

Patrick's career kicked off with a 23-year tenure as a Production Stage Manager, taking him to the illustrious stages of Broadway with productions like "Annie," "Sweeney Todd," and "Blood Brothers." He orchestrated the intricacies of national tours, regional theatres, and even PBS productions, proving his mettle in every aspect of theatrical production.

Transitioning into leadership roles, Patrick served as the Director at Columbia Artists Management, Inc., and Programming Production Manager at Ordway Music Theatre. His knack for reducing costs, boosting productivity, and enhancing revenue streams became legendary. He was not just managing productions; he was transforming them.

From directing TDF Adventures in the Arts to leading the Black Hills Community Theatre, Patrick's visionary leadership shone brightly. At Minneluzahan Senior Citizen's Center and Somerset Court, he brought the arts into the lives of diverse communities, enriching their cultural landscape. His stint at Advantage Solutions showcased his ability to manage large teams and complex events with finesse.

Patrick's love for teaching saw him as an Adjunct Professor at Black Hills State University. Here, he introduced non-traditional students to the magical world of theatre, nurturing a new generation of thespians and artists.

As Managing Director, Patrick's strategic planning prowess came to the fore. He crafted new grant writer positions, secured substantial funding, and increased website traffic through savvy marketing. His efforts saved the organisation significant sums, proving his expertise in financial stewardship and program development.

In 2016, Patrick founded O'Leary Consulting for the Arts, LLC, a beacon of hope for artists and arts organisations. Through strategic planning, resource development, and philanthropic counsel, he helped them realise their visions. His consultancy became synonymous with growth, innovation, and artistic excellence.

With About Time Productions, Patrick harnessed the power of theatre to spark social change. His expertise in non-profit management, production, and strategic planning laid the groundwork for thought-provoking musicals that tackle critical social issues. ATP became a platform for dialogue, empathy, and a shared sense of humanity.

Patrick's commitment to the arts is reflected in his memberships with Theatre Makers Studio and Theatre Resources Unlimited, as well as his certification in Producing by the Commercial Theatre Institute. A lifelong learner and avid social networker, he continues to connect with people and share his undying passion for the arts.

In the grand tapestry of the arts, Patrick O'Leary is a master weaver, threading together creativity, leadership, and a deep commitment to social justice. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of theatre, and his story is one of inspiration, dedication, and relentless pursuit of artistic excellence.

Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM
Chief Culture Vulture
Arts & Culture Network
www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com
mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbwalmsley/

Meet Caroline Boff FRSA - abstract artist with heart

Mark.walmsley

Related tracks