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

Ian Jones is a gallery owner, curator and art director at Galerie P6 in Berlin, and is renowned for his passion for bringing fine art to those in his community. Ian has successfully built a thriving business in the art world post-pandemic. 

https://www.galerie-p6-berlin.de/

His network of contacts, market knowledge, and creative vision have established Galerie P6 as a hub for collectible fine art from both emerging and established artists, while also crafting memorable experiences for art lovers.

In our interview, I created Ian's fantasy cultural year from the answers to 10 easy questions. Expect some laughter, anecdotes, surprises and conversational detours.

Ian and I shared ambitious plans to create at Galerie P6, the first interactive pointillism gallery in Berlin. Visitors will be invited to study the works and write what they see in them on the wall next to the work, for others to see.

This groundbreaking project aims to involve visitors in the experience more, as participants rather than observers. They'll feel part of the experience by interpreting the work with their own imaginations. This initiative aligns with Ian’s broader mission to engage the community and offer new ways to experience art.

In our interview I studied a work by Paul Gardner and was able to see a garden path, doors, trees, bushes and a horizon that the artist had not intended. As a result, I felt part of the process of discovery and enjoyment.

A highlight of our conversation was the creation of Ian’s fantasy cultural year. This imaginative journey included visits to Paris, Vienna, Malaga, and Barcelona, with each city offering tailored experiences to deepen Ian’s expertise in pointillism. Activities ranged from studying original Pointillist works in Paris to enjoying cultural events like a Rammstein concert and a Shakespeare play in Barcelona.

With his plans for an interactive pointillism gallery Ian aims to revolutionise how art is experienced and appreciated in his community.

Ian’s background in tourism management and his passion for opera uniquely position him to create enriching cultural experiences. His vision for Galerie P6 and his innovative projects continue to push the boundaries of the traditional gallery model, offering a glimpse into the future of art and community engagement.

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

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Ian Jones - Fine art pointillism gallery owner and pioneer

Joyce Moi is a woman whose journey through life could be compared to a vibrant tapestry—each thread meticulously woven with passion, resilience, and a sprinkle of quirky flair. The founder of Janet Lee Gallery, Joyce has carved out a unique space in the art world that celebrates the extraordinary talents of neuro-diverse artists, turning challenges into opportunities and disabilities into powerful abilities.

The Early Years: A Corporate Powerhouse
Before she became the driving force behind Janet Lee Gallery, Joyce’s career took off in the corporate world, where she was anything but ordinary. From her beginnings as a Systems Supervisor at Sistemaju Malaysia, she gradually scaled the heights of corporate Malaysia, transitioning into roles that demanded not just intellect, but strategic prowess and a dash of boldness. Whether as a Product Manager or as the Vice President of Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise, Joyce was always the one to watch — the person who knew how to turn a challenge into a triumph.

A Shift in Purpose: From Corporate to Caregiver
However, life had more in store for Joyce than just boardrooms and bottom lines. Her world pivoted when her daughter, Janet Lee, came into the picture. Janet was differently-abled and medically challenged, but Joyce saw in her daughter a spark—one that needed nurturing, protection, and most importantly, a platform. Thus, in 2020, Janet Lee Gallery was born, a sanctuary where Janet’s art could not only be displayed but celebrated. Joyce’s mission? To empower Janet to be financially independent and inspire others to see that “disability” is just another word for a different kind of ability.

Janet Lee Gallery: More Than Just a Gallery
Under Joyce's guidance, Janet Lee Gallery became more than just a place to showcase art; it became a movement. The gallery operates on the tenets of positivity, empowerment, and gratitude — values that Joyce not only preaches but lives by. With Janet's passing, the gallery's mission evolved further, transforming into a beacon for other neuro-diverse talents and their families. Joyce became a mentor, guiding parents who, like her, want to cultivate a space where their children’s unique talents can shine brightly.

The Mentor: Guiding Others Along the Path
In addition to running the gallery, Joyce's passion for helping others led her to earn numerous certifications and become a coach for parents navigating the complexities of raising neuro-diverse children. Whether through the Qigong Sensory Training Institute, the Crispiani Method, or as a certified DIR Floortime Provider, Joyce has amassed an impressive toolkit of techniques and approaches. She doesn't just mentor—she transforms lives, helping families see the potential in every challenge and the possibility in every obstacle.

Beyond the Gallery: A Legacy of Positivity and Empowerment
Joyce Moi’s journey is far from over. With each new chapter, she continues to write a story that is equal parts inspirational and deeply human. Whether she’s advising a CEO, coaching a parent, or simply sharing Janet’s story with the world, Joyce embodies the belief that everything is possible with a bit of determination, a lot of heart, and an unwavering belief in the power of positivity.

So, if you ever find yourself at Janet Lee Gallery, remember—you're not just looking at art; you're witnessing the manifestation of a mother’s love, a mentor’s wisdom, and a woman’s dream to change the world, one brushstroke at a time.

Joyce Moi - The trailblazer behind Janet Lee Gallery

Clare Kelly isn’t just your average ecommerce and digital marketing consultant—she’s a veritable force of nature in the online world, with a flair for helping businesses and non-profits alike thrive in the digital space. Armed with over 15 years of experience and an impressive resume that reads like a who’s who of the tech and retail world, Clare’s expertise is as deep as it is wide-ranging.
Clare and I discussed her expertise and her study abroad opportunity. We also explored various cultural events, the intersection of sports and art, and personal preferences in music, food, and activities in Clare’s fantasy cultural year and the This or That game. 
The Journey Begins: From Art to Algorithms
Clare’s path to digital stardom began in a rather unexpected place: the art studio. After earning a BA Hons in Illustration from the University of Brighton, she quickly found that her knack for creativity could translate seamlessly into the burgeoning world of digital content. The leap from brushstrokes to bytes was a natural one, as she honed her skills in user experience and content strategy at Epic Learning and Websters International, where she dabbled in everything from e-learning for the NHS to localising content for the likes of Channel 4 and Google.
A Turn Towards Tech: The Big Leagues
It wasn’t long before Clare’s talents caught the eye of tech giants, and she found herself at the heart of digital innovation at Microsoft. Here, she played a pivotal role in bringing new features to Bing, including the launch of visual search capabilities—way ahead of its time. But Clare wasn’t done yet. She then moved to Amazon, where she took charge of site merchandising for the Kitchen & Home category, driving a mind-boggling £260 million in annual turnover.
Scaling New Heights: Ecommerce Extraordinaire
With big tech boxes ticked, Clare set her sights on the ecommerce world, where her ability to grow revenue and enhance customer journeys truly shone. At Tate, she doubled online merchandise sales and managed a £9 million turnover, all while navigating the complexities of Salesforce Commerce Cloud. This success set the stage for her role as Head of Digital & Ecommerce at Sass & Belle, where she commanded both B2B and D2C channels, masterfully juggling digital marketing, marketplaces, and the entire ecommerce tech stack.
The Green Heart: A Commitment to Sustainability
Beyond the boardroom and digital dashboards, Clare’s heart beats for sustainability. A committed vegan for over a decade, she’s passionate about the circular economy and the latest innovations in material technology and recycling. Whether it’s consulting for a vegan skincare brand or spearheading sustainable fashion initiatives, Clare’s ethos of “better business, better planet” is woven into every project she takes on.
The Freelancer’s Frontier: A New Chapter
Today, Clare operates as a freelance consultant under her own banner, Branch9 Digital, where she brings her holistic approach to a diverse clientele that spans small businesses, museums, and charities. Whether it’s performance marketing, digital transformation, or SEO wizardry, Clare’s got it covered. She’s recently been the strategic force behind digital campaigns for the National Museum of the Royal Navy and Malin+Goetz, driving impressive results with her trademark blend of creativity and data-driven insight.
Let’s Connect: The Future Beckons
Always eager to collaborate, Clare is open to new opportunities where she can make an impact—especially if it involves supporting non-profits or advancing sustainable practices. So, if you’re looking to grow your online store or need a digital strategy that’s as innovative as it is effective, Clare Kelly is the consultant you want in your corner.
Fun Fact
Clare’s love for art hasn’t faded—she’s just traded her sketchpad for digital canvases, bringing the same creativity and meticulous attention to detail that once defined her illustrations into every aspect of her.

Clare Kelly

Meet Angela Koski—a vibrant artist of creativity, innovation, and altruism. Born in the sun-kissed coastal town of South Laguna, CA, Angela has grown from a curious child into a dynamic force for positive change. Whether she's weaving her artistic vision into the fabric of global culture and the artwork she creates or bridging divides across communities, Angela's journey is one of continuous learning, passionate collaboration, and impactful problem-solving.

It was fascinating learning about Angela Koski’s art and her answers to creating her fantasy cultural year provided much amusement. We finished with the This or That game, concluding that this informal interview style always provides many laughs and conversational detours. 

Angela’s journey began in the picturesque community of Dana Point, CA, where the Pacific waves served as the backdrop to her early explorations of art and creativity. Growing up, she was a sponge for learning, absorbing inspiration from the natural world around her. This love for nature and the human experience would later become the cornerstone of her artistic endeavours.

Corporate America and the Early Career: 
Angela spent over 30 years navigating the intricate corridors of corporate America. From managing operations and spearheading marketing strategies to building and maintaining client relationships, Angela honed her skills in problem-solving, strategic thinking, and team collaboration. Her work took her across various states, including Florida, Hawaii, and ultimately Nebraska, where she currently resides.

The Shift to Art and Humanity: 
By 2023, Angela felt a deep calling to realign her focus from the corporate world to her true passion: humanity, art, and science. This transition marked the beginning of a chapter defined by the pursuit of positive change, healing, and artistic expression. Angela established My HeART Studio by Angela Danielle, her "North Star," where she could channel her creative energy into projects that inspire growth, education, and global unity.

Artistic and Humanitarian Ventures: 
Angela's artistic repertoire is as diverse as her experiences. From collage and mixed media to digital arts and public installations, she has explored a vast array of mediums, each reflecting her deep connection to the universe and the human spirit. Her art is not just a means of expression but a vehicle for healing and inspiration. Through My HeART Studio, she seeks to restore humanity’s alignment with nature, driving accountability, transparency, and strength of heart in all her endeavours.

Community and Global Impact: 
Never one to limit herself, Angela’s vision extends beyond her studio walls. She is a dedicated humanitarian, striving to bridge gaps between communities, states, and countries. Whether it’s volunteering at local organisations like Heartland Family Service, coordinating cultural exchanges through Greenheart International, or brainstorming in global think tanks, Angela is committed to understanding, education, and healthier, happier tomorrows.

Current and Future Endeavours: 
Now, Angela is eager to collaborate with like-minded individuals, sharing her skills and experience to make a real impact on humanity. Open to freelance projects, board memberships, and innovative brainstorming sessions, Angela continues to evolve, always ready to help others get unstuck, grow, and explore new ideas.

Angela Koski is more than an artist—she’s a unifier, a problem-solver, and her own tapestry of positive change. With her heart set on a brighter future for all, Angela’s story is one of continuous growth, boundless creativity, and unwavering dedication to the betterment of humanity.

Angela Koski - The Human Connection Artist and Creative Innovator

Beth Ross is a contemporary visual artist whose work delves into the complexities of memory, place, and emotion, often through the lens of her personal experiences. Currently based in the North East of England, her artistic journey has been deeply influenced by her childhood. The vivid colours, patterns, and textures of her past travels and the contrasting landscapes of ancient and modern architecture in Kuwait have become a recurring theme in her work, as she continues to explore and reinterpret these memories through her art.

I loved interpreting her art through a sneak peak at her website and was surprised by Beth's choices when we created her fantasy cultural year.

After a successful 18-year teaching career that took her to Singapore, Cork, Vienna, Norwich, Cambridge, and Durham, Beth completed her Fine Art degree in 2014. Her early works were shaped by the limitations of creating art in a home without a dedicated studio, relying on her photography skills as a means to quickly and efficiently explore her ideas. These constraints led her to develop a series-based approach to her work, categorising and expanding on themes as a way to delve deeper into her subject matter. During this time, she began experimenting with soft sculpture and mixed media, creating memory dolls, a coat made from the skins of cuddly toys, and flags that reflected her personal history.

Beth’s work gained wider recognition in 2015 when she was commissioned by Artichoke to create three neon signs for Durham's Lumiere festival, inspired by an 11th-century text found in Durham Cathedral. In 2018, with the acquisition of a dedicated studio space, she returned to painting and drawing, revisiting earlier themes with renewed focus. Her painting style, influenced by artists like Bridget Riley, Beatriz Milhazes, and Agnes Martin, marries hard-edged geometric abstraction with subtle textural details, creating a tactile, visceral experience for the viewer. The controlled lines and borders in her work are contrasted with the sensuality of the soft textures, embodying the tension between order and emotion.

Beth's artistic process is deeply ritualistic, with each piece beginning as a fleeting idea that may be sketched or simply held in mind until it demands a physical manifestation. Her practice is informed by both private and collective memories, the essence of place, and the passage of time, all viewed through a feminist lens. Her method of mixing paints and applying layers of colour is as much about the tactile experience as it is about the final visual outcome, often using her hands and fingers to build up surfaces that reveal the presence of the artist.

In addition to her studio practice, Beth has been actively involved in public art and community projects. She is currently an Artist in Residence at Cresswell Pele Tower in Northumberland (2023-2024) and a member of the advisory group for Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art (MIMA). Her work has been exhibited extensively across the UK and Europe, with recent exhibitions at NCA in Newcastle, Gallagher and Turner in Newcastle, and According to McGee in York.

Beth has received several prestigious awards, including the Developing Your Creative Practice grant from Arts Council England and a bursary from the Contemporary Visual Arts Network in partnership with the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art. Her work is represented by Artiq Art Agency, and she continues to seek new opportunities to expand her practice, particularly in the fields of public art and commercial commissions.

Beth Ross's work continues to resonate with those who encounter it, offering a deeply personal yet universal exploration of memory, place, and the passage of time. Her commitment to exploring these themes through a variety of media, coupled with her unique approach to colour and texture, makes her a compelling voice in contemporary art.

Beth Ross - The Geometric interpretation artist

Geeta Yerra is a self-taught Indian artist whose journey into the art world has evolved over the past decade. 

In our interview, I created Geeta's fantasy cultural year. Expect some surprises.

Originally trained in Human Resources, Geeta’s passion for art blossomed during a two-year stay in the UK, prompting her to leave her corporate career upon returning to India. Initially focused on realistic watercolour paintings, her work took a transformative turn during the pandemic, leading her to embrace concept art, primarily using oil on large linen canvases.

Geeta’s paintings serve as visual diaries, capturing true events and personal stories with a surrealistic style rich in symbolism and texture. She revisits themes repeatedly, exploring them through fresh imagery, aiming to evoke emotional connections and inner reflection in her viewers. 

Her art, available through platforms like Artfinder and Saatchi Art, is a means of self-expression and a way to connect with others. Geeta's work is not just about visual appeal; it’s about sharing stories and fostering a sense of community through creativity.

More here:
https://linktr.ee/geetayerra

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

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Geeta Yerra - Storytelling Indian artist

Heidi Pyper isn't your typical wordsmith. Oh no, she’s the secret weapon behind the scenes, capturing the untold stories of those who have shaken their industries to the core. With an uncanny ability to extract the battles, triumphs, and quiet resilience from her clients, Heidi transforms their journeys into compelling memoirs that are impossible to put down. But don’t be fooled—Heidi isn’t just about ghostwriting; she’s a one-woman powerhouse on a mission to give voice to those who have walked the road less travelled.

A Journey Through Words and Worlds
Heidi’s story starts long before she ever picked up a pen as a professional ghostwriter. With a background as diverse as the stories she tells, Heidi has worn many hats—each one adding a new layer to her narrative tapestry.

In 2004, she found herself in Ningbo, China, where she began her career as an English teacher at EF English First. Within nine months, her natural knack for teaching and leadership saw her rise to the role of Senior English Teacher, where she helped everyone from kids to business professionals navigate the tricky waters of English language learning.

Fast forward to 2009, Heidi returned to the UK and launched "Bonjour Tonton!"—a whimsical venture where she taught French to preschoolers, complete with educational videos and Tonton the Tortoise as her sidekick. This wasn’t just a gig; it was an 11-year journey into the world of language learning, blogging, and even picture book publishing.

By 2020, Heidi was already a seasoned pro in the world of content and copywriting. She took on roles as a Marketing Specialist, where she crafted compelling marketing work for brands like NEXT DESK—helping to launch a foldable home office desk that was born out of the COVID pandemic. Her words didn’t just sell products; they built brands.

But Heidi’s passion for storytelling didn’t stop at product descriptions and marketing slogans. In April 2023, she took a leap of faith and embraced the role she was born for—ghostwriting. Her focus? The untold stories of those who have broken barriers, shattered expectations, and created new paths where none existed before.

The Cultural Me and the Power of Stories
As if ghostwriting wasn’t enough to keep her busy, Heidi is also a Community Manager and Editorial Assistant at The Cultural Me. Since January 2024, she’s been welcoming new writers into a vibrant community dedicated to exploring life through the arts and humanities. Her role isn’t just about editing; it’s about fostering a space where voices from all walks of life can be heard, their stories shaped and shared with the world.

Her freelance work as an Arts & Culture Writer has also seen her dive into topics close to her heart—literature and spirituality. Her article on the poetry of Dylan Thomas, for instance, is a testament to her love for words and the profound impact they can have on our understanding of humanity and the divine.

The Heartbeat of Heidi's Work
Heidi’s work is more than just a job; it’s a calling. She’s not just interested in the glitzy, polished parts of success—she’s driven to uncover the gritty, raw truths that often lie hidden beneath the surface. Whether you’re an arts professional with a story to tell or a game-changer ready to set the record straight, Heidi is the one who can help you craft your narrative.

Heidi believes that sharing your story is a powerful act of self-liberation. It’s a way to reclaim your truth, inspire others, and—most importantly—honour the journey that brought you to where you are today.

So, are you ready to tell your story? Because Heidi Pyper is ready to write it.

Heidi Pyper - Ghostwriter for Game-Changers

ACN full member, gallery owner and artist Vincent Messelier gave us his 10 golden tips to level up as an artist and creative. He even had the kindness to add a P.S. note at the bottom of each one!

You can reach Vincent on LinkedIn here
https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincent-messelier-4210b532/
and via his website here 
https://vincentmesselier.com/


Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM
Chief of Stuff 
www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com
"Cultivating creative connections"
mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbwalmsley/

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10 golden tips to level up as an artist and creative with Vincent Messelier.

The Musical Prelude: Early Years & International Spotlight

Kate's journey begins, of course, with the cello. From the concert halls of Salzburg to the stages of Moscow, her performances of Dvorak and Haydn concerti have left audiences breathless. She's graced iconic venues like Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art, bringing both classical works and her own contemporary edge to the world.

Her love for the cello isn’t confined to playing it; Kate has been instrumental in keeping the instrument's legacy alive as the President of the Violoncello Society of New York. Under her leadership, she’s collaborated with legends like Yo-Yo Ma and John-Henry Crawford while overseeing the creation of ensemble performances and masterclasses. Preserving history while driving innovation? That’s the Kate Dillingham way.

The Pivot to Innovation: Kate, the Tech Entrepreneur

But wait—Kate isn’t just a cellist. In true Renaissance spirit, she leapt into the tech world, founding MyBlueSkiesMusic during the pandemic. With the precision of a seasoned performer and the vision of a tech entrepreneur, Kate built an edtech platform that empowers musicians worldwide to teach, perform, and collaborate—seamlessly.

In the age of virtual everything, MyBlueSkiesMusic sets itself apart by offering unmatched audio quality from the moment musicians log in. No ads, no spam, no fuss. It’s a space designed for musicians, by a musician who knows the frustrations of glitchy audio during live-streamed performances. Kate’s invention is more than just a business; it’s her way of giving back to the artistic community, making sure that artists can not only survive but thrive online.

Whether you're a teacher looking to expand your reach, a student or a performer ready to broadcast to the world, MBSM turns every session into a virtual concert hall, minus the echo. It's personal, professional, and packed with the kind of high-end tech usually reserved for recording studios. In short, MBSM isn’t just a platform—it’s a stage where every musician can sound their best.

Leadership with Purpose: Kate’s Nonprofit Engagement

Kate’s leadership extends beyond her startup, though. She serves as Artistic Director for ArtsAhimsa: Music for Peace, an organisation focused on using music to promote peace and understanding in our chaotic world. Through concerts and festivals across New York, Massachusetts, and Washington, D.C., Kate curates performances that align with her passion for making the world a better place—one note at a time.

Whether organising the annual “Spring Musicale” at the Dvorak American Heritage Association or leading workshops in chamber music, Kate brings her unique blend of creativity and discipline to everything she touches.

A Harmonious Future: Teacher, Innovator, Leader

Kate Dillingham isn't just a musician; she’s a builder—of ideas, communities, and technology. She’s equally comfortable performing a Haydn concerto in front of thousands as she is presenting her tech startup to a panel of MBA students at Duke University. Balancing her role as a GRAMMY Voting Member, educator, and entrepreneur, she proves time and time again that music and technology can not only coexist but thrive together.

Through it all, Kate remains laser-focused on her mission: to create opportunities for musicians around the globe. Whether she's recording an album in Moscow or building a global edtech empire, one thing’s for sure—Kate Dillingham plays to win. And she plays beautifully.

Kate Dillinngham -A Force of Nature in Music, Technology, and beyond.

John Heavern, a mystical lyricist hailing from the snow-dusted corners of Buffalo, New York, is a man who dances in dual worlds. Currently residing in Charlotte, North Carolina, he weaves his poetic tales not just in lyrics but also in the machinery of steel and the rigours of warehouse work. But don’t be fooled by his industrial exterior—John’s soul sings through his collaborations with Dutch composer Martin Gelderman, a partnership that has brought forth over a hundred songs, many still waiting to be unleashed upon the world.

Born in the shadow of Buffalo’s icy winters, John grew up with words and music running through his veins. His lyrical style, rich with mystical imagery and introspection, sets him apart. His creative talents have found a home on Kompoz.com, where he’s penned over 500 songs, with nearly 200 published and 130 “lyric videos” adorning his YouTube channel, a digital temple where words and music intertwine.

However, this lyrical mystic is no stranger to the practical world. With an 8-year background in steel fabrication, John mastered a variety of machines, from plasma cutters to forklifts. His time in the Navy saw him promoted quickly through the ranks, thanks to his quick thinking and ability to handle emergency situations at sea.

As the years passed, John’s dual talents flourished—by day, he worked with steel and materials, lifting beams with overhead cranes and ensuring warehouses ran smoothly. By night, he danced through melodies and rhymes, pouring his soul into song. His lyrical journey led to a fruitful collaboration with Gelderman, forming a bridge between American grit and European refinement, creating songs that wander through genres and across oceans.

Now, with nearly two decades of warehouse expertise under his belt, John remains a man of contrasts—both a meticulous organiser of raw materials and a dreamer who can pluck words out of the air and set them to music. Whether he’s running a saw or composing a haunting lyric, John Heavern moves through life as a poet in an industrial world, balancing practicality with pure creative spirit.

Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM
Chief of Stuff 
www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com
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mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com
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Ksenia Kazintseva, art at the heart of Europe

Mark.walmsley

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