Georgia Iona Newman Hampshire, United Kingdom
I am a Curator and Creative Producer living on the beautiful Isle of Wight located on the south coast of England. I work with artists, galleries, museums and other cultural organisations on fundraising, community engagement, arts commissioning, strategic development and project management.
I am passionate about connecting communities with contemporary arts and cultural activities, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to experience great arts and culture on their doorstep. I have been working with artists for over 10 years, helping them realise their artistic visions, through curatorial support, advising on funding avenues and points of contact to other galleries, museums and creative organisations and individuals. I have extensive training in arts fundraising and philanthropy and have hands on experience working in a gallery setting.
From 2008 to 2022 I was the Visual Arts Manager for the Isle of Wight's leading art centre Quay Arts. From concept to evaluation, I managed and curated a varied and engaging programme of contemporary visual arts, working with local, regional and international artists, as well as touring collections, schools and community groups. This demanding and fast-paced role allowed me to work with a number of artists and galleries across the south region. Quay Arts is a charity and relies on volunteers and project grants in order to maintain an exciting programme of visual arts, music, theatre, dance and workshops.
I have extensive experience of managing and delivering projects through previously successful grants from Heritage Lottery Fund, The Eridge Trust, Ernest Cook Trust and Arts Council England, from £2,000 to over £95,000. I have worked with reputable organisations and galleries such as the John Hansard Gallery through artSOUTH: collaborations and ARTIST ROOMS: Martin Creed.
Recently I was successful with an Arts Council Project Grant for an ambitious two-year project, commissioning public art in four locations on the Isle of Wight titled 'Lift the Lid on Island Culture' 2018-2020, aiming to reignite a sense of pride and passion in cultural heritage on the IW. I was also awarded a grant to independently research and develop an IW based Creative Network - which has now received further ACE funding and support from the IW Council, and has put into action a Development Programme throughout 2022 to help make IW Creative businesses more sustainable.
I also work independently with artists on creative professional development, providing studio assistance and guidance on funding applications. I have worked as a producer and tour booker for award winning theatre companies and have and been a guest lecturer at Southampton Solent University.
