Develop your own profile, network, career, and/or business by joining us at The Arts and Culture Network as a full member. It's just £10 per month. Cancel any time. Benefits are here . This profile is just one of them. MAKING THE TRANSITION FROM DEVELOPING ECONOMIES TO CULTIVATING CULTURES D. Paul Schafer has over five decades of experience in the cultural sector as an educator, advisor, administrator, and researcher. He served as assistant director of the Ontario Arts Council (1967–1970) and founded York University's Arts and Media Administration Program (1970–1974). He coordinated arts and international development programs at the University of Toronto (1984–1990) and taught arts administration and cultural policy at both York University and the University of Toronto. Paul has also undertaken projects for Canada’s Department of External Affairs and advisory missions for UNESCO worldwide. Initially trained as an economist, he previously taught economics at Dalhousie and Acadia Universities. In his paper below, Paul explores the importance (and neglect) of culture as a driver in global economies Introduction: Over the last two and a half centuries, developing economies has been accorded the highest priority in the world. While countless benefits have been derived from this, it has become clear over the last few decades that the costs of developing economies are starting to outweigh the benefits and this could get much worse in the future. Hence the need to make the transition from developing economies to cultivating cultures as the most effective way to deal with this problem in the future. Download Paul's paper in full as a PDF here: You will find Paul on LinkedIn here . Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM Chief of Stuff Arts & Culture Network Join us as a full member for "done for you" profile, network, career, and/or business development support for just £10 per month. Cancel any time. https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join Here are some of our full member testimonials: "Had to write and say a huge thank you for the networking sessions you are running. Met some great people today, thank you so much." "Great speed networking session today - I really enjoyed it and got some really relevant and valuable connections!" "I've just joined!! £10 a month for a 1:1 business growth session, free networking, and access to all the events (on top of everything else!)?! This is INSANE value for money Mark and I'm so grateful for everything you've done to build such a supportive network of likeminded creative professionals." Forthcoming free networking events Mark Walmsley FRSA AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com

Develop your own profile, network, career, and/or business by joining us at The Arts and Culture Network as a full member. It's just £10 per month. Cancel any time. Benefits are here . This profile is just one of them. Meet Sami Tauber ... AKA VNCCII Introducing futuristic artist Samantha Tauber , also known as VNCCII , the visionary behind a groundbreaking fusion of music, technology, and storytelling. (Sami and I recorded a catch up interview in September 2024 which you can watch below.) 2024 has been a groundbreaking year for VNCCII, marked by extraordinary accomplishments and global recognition. Receiving the prestigious Global Talent Visa for Combined Arts in the UK was a defining moment, acknowledging VNCCII as an 'exceptional talent' in the creative arts. This transformative year also saw VNCCII’s music venture into uncharted territories—literally—with compositions sent into deep space. Additionally, VNCCII's debut science fiction novel, Galact.a.i.ssance and the VNCCII Awakening , achieved an unprecedented milestone by being preserved on the Moon for millennia via NanoFiche Permanent Archival Technology. VNCCII’s innovative work gained further acclaim when featured as the cover story of The RSA Journal , the publication of the Royal Society for Arts, Manufactures, and Commerce. As VNCCII reflects on this ascending journey, they extend heartfelt gratitude to friends, industry peers, and a global community aligned with their mission of uplifting humanity’s consciousness and fostering peace and love for Planet Earth. With 2025 on the horizon, the future promises to be nothing short of stellar. As a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, Sami has received prestigious accolades, including the Music Metaverse Award at MEWS Monaco 2023 and the Top Chief Metaverse Officer of the Year Award at IATOP 2023. In our interview, we created Sami's perfect fantasy cultural year of travel from 10 easy questions. Expect some anecdotes and surprises. Through her persona VNCCII ( https://www.vnccii.com/ ), Sami emerges as a versatile artist, musician, and futurist. Bringing to life a Super Sentient AI SuperHeroine character from the future, she mesmerises audiences with live performances that seamlessly blend music and cutting-edge multimedia technologies. With an unwavering commitment to innovation, Sami's journey is studded with milestones, such as her recognition as a Top 100 Woman of the Future in the Metaverse and Web 3. Publications like Grazia UK have acknowledged her for revolutionizing the music industry. As the Chief Metaverse Officer of VNCCII, Sami's impact extends beyond music. She is the mastermind behind a Space Opera franchise inspired by a science fiction novel, enriching her immersive world-building. Sami's dedication to elevating humanity's consciousness shines through her live stage shows, where Unreal Game Engine technology and motion capture create a truly unique experience. In her own words, Sami views leadership as a tool to empower and uplift others. Her influence resonates globally, as she shares insights at prestigious events like the World Economic Forum and Immerse Global Summit. Through her vodcast "Future Humans," Sami engages with industry thought leaders, cultivating a community around the VNCCII project. Despite challenges, Sami's dedication to her vision remains steadfast. She continues to inspire as a trailblazer in the Metaverse, earning recognition as one of the Most Dynamic Entrepreneurs by APAC Entrepreneur. Her leadership philosophy revolves around unlocking the potential within each individual, echoing the ethos of the "Return of Impact." Drawing inspiration from visionaries like George Lucas and Walt Disney, Sami advocates for a transition from Web 2 to Web 3, highlighting community and social impact. Her message to fellow dreamers is one of perseverance and self-belief, encouraging all to embrace their inner hero and create a positive impact on the world. Explore the world of VNCCII and connect with Sami: https://www.vnccii.com . You can reach Sami on LinkedIn here , by email here and on her website here . IG: https://www.instagram.com/vnccii_official/ X: https://twitter.com/VNCCII_OFFICIAL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vncciiofficial/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6xJuYsf1KVNdBFLykYIES2?si=UvWSX7-ORcWb0ZuuGo1mOQ Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/au/artist/vnccii/1454001383 YouTube: h ttps://www.youtube.com/@vnccii3601 Explore more of Sami's music videos here: Would you like to be interviewed for the publication and promotion of a profile like this? We'll publish the video to our YouTube channel and embed it in a profile we will write about you. We'll also create an entry for you in our searchable directory . Your interview will be promoted on all our socials, by email like this, and posted as a pinned post at the top of all our LinkedIn groups where we now have over 100,000 registered members, serving 2m post views to over 800,000 LinkedIn users every month. This is just one of several benefits of full membership at just £10 per month (€12/$12) and you may cancel any time. Join us here . Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network Join us as a full member for "done for you" profile, network, career, and/or business development support for just £10 per month. Cancel any time. https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join Here are some of our full member testimonials: "Had to write and say a huge thank you for the networking sessions you are running. Met some great people today, thank you so much." "Great speed networking session today - I really enjoyed it and got some really relevant and valuable connections!" "I've just joined!! £10 a month for a 1:1 business growth session, free networking, and access to all the events (on top of everything else!)?! This is INSANE value for money Mark and I'm so grateful for everything you've done to build such a supportive network of likeminded creative professionals." Forthcoming free networking events Mark Walmsley FRSA AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com

Develop your own profile, network, career, and/or business by joining us at The Arts and Culture Network as a full member. It's just £10 per month. Cancel any time. Benefits are here . This profile is just one of them. Meet Sidrah Hakim FRSA (Soulscape artist and founder of Wrigglingworm studio) In the heart of Kerpen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, lives a creative whirlwind named Sidrah Hakim —a Soulscape Artist, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA), and the visionary founder of Wrigglingworm Studio . Sidrah has journeyed through two decades of artistic exploration, blending the poetic intricacies of human emotion with the vivid hues of her canvas. Her art isn’t just something to behold; it’s a passport to the uncharted territories of the soul. Mark and Sidrah enjoyed a conversational wander when getting to know each other more and creating Sidrah's fantasy cultural year. Sidrah's style Sidrah’s unique approach—what she fondly calls "soulscapes"—is a profound invitation for viewers to step into a transformative world of introspection, healing, and renewal. With a painter’s brush and a seeker’s heart, she captures the emotional undercurrents of existence, transforming them into captivating pieces that connect deeply with those who encounter them. Her diverse portfolio spans spiritual and natural landscapes to abstract expressions, each work a luminous thread in the tapestry of her inner journey. To witness her art is to feel its healing energy—a gentle nudge for others to connect with their own emotions and spiritual truths. Achievements Sidrah’s artistic voice has echoed across some of the globe’s most notable venues. She has exhibited her soulscapes at the Laguna Art Gallery in California and Art.number 23 in Athens, Salzburg, and Rome. Her work has graced prominent art fairs, including Art Expo Dallas and Art Monaco, earning her accolades that cement her place in the international art community. Among her many laurels is the coveted “Art Shop” Prize from the BIANCOSCURO Art Contest. With further recognition on the horizon, including the Luxembourg Art Prize, Sidrah’s artistry continues to garner acclaim. Her influence extends beyond exhibitions. Sidrah’s work has been featured in prestigious publications, with glowing reviews in The Milano Post, Art Review, and Contemporary Art Magazine. Through these platforms, she has become a rising star in contemporary art, her creations sparking conversations around themes of healing and self-discovery. A step into the past But Sidrah’s artistic pursuits are only part of her story. Before she became a luminary in the art world, she honed her expertise in Human Resources. With a Master’s Degree in Personnel Management from the University of Pune and Neville Wadia College in India, she navigated the corporate landscape, balancing the worlds of art and HR. Her professional journey includes a tenure as Human Resources Manager at E.C. Linkage, where she embraced a hybrid approach to work, seamlessly merging her passion for human connection with her artistic flair. Link to Sidrah's profile The birth of Wrigglingworm Studio In 2020, Sidrah channelled her creative spirit into founding Wrigglingworm Studio, an online gallery and community hub. More than a showcase for her art, the studio is a haven for those seeking to intertwine beauty and peace within their personal spaces. Sidrah’s guiding philosophy is simple yet profound: art should resonate with the soul, reflecting the personality and environment of its beholder. Through Wrigglingworm Studio, she fosters a vibrant community, sharing her creative process and encouraging meaningful dialogues around healing and self-expression. Sidrah’s story is one of continual evolution. From her artistic beginnings in 1995 to her rise as a celebrated soulscape artist, her life’s work is a beacon for those seeking connection—to art, to themselves, and to the world around them. Whether through her evocative paintings or her heartfelt interactions, Sidrah Hakim inspires all who encounter her to embrace the power of art. A Fantasy Cultural Year: Sidra's Dream Artistic Journey Listen to our interview on Spotify > Crafted during a vibrant conversation with Mark, Sidra's dream year unfolds as a tapestry of artistic discovery, cultural immersion, and personal growth. Here's a glimpse into the interview: Starting Point: Exploring Sidra's Artistic Journey and Process Sidra, a celebrated soulscape artist and member of the Arts and Culture Network, begins her journey by reflecting on her creative process and inspirations. She describes her website, Wriggling Worm Studio, where her paintings are showcased, as a portal into her deeply spiritual artistry. Born and raised in India with an African influence, Sidra discovered her passion for painting at the age of 16. She shares how her work reflects her emotional states and life experiences, turning chaos and confusion into abstract and geometric designs that bring her peace. Sidra considers her paintings complete only when her mind is at peace with the situation, making each piece a profound personal narrative. Exploring Soulscape Art and Emotional Expression Sidra's artistic philosophy is rooted in her identity as a Soulscape artist. Her works, unbound by specific colour palettes, are chosen to evoke emotions that resonate deeply with her soul. She shares her practice of documenting emotions during the creative process and condensing them into short descriptions for each piece. During their conversation, Mark expresses admiration for Sidra's art, particularly the depth and emotional richness of her abstract designs. He reveals his interest in abstract art, especially pointillism, appreciating its invitation for viewer participation. Inspired by Sidra's talent, Mark proposes showcasing her artwork on their website, further amplifying her reach. Creative Conversations: Favourite Building and Book In a light-hearted discussion, Sidra and Mark explore their creative inspirations. Sidra names the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain, as her favourite building, envisioning herself enjoying the view while sipping coffee outside. She also shares her love for Rebecca Zanetti's dystopian series, which explores a future where a virus affects humanity’s empathy. Mark expresses enthusiasm for discovering the series on Audible, ending their imaginative exchange on a note of shared curiosity and appreciation. Year-Long Contract with a Spanish Foundation Sidra’s artistry attracts the attention of a wealthy family foundation, leading to Mark proposing a year-long contract. The foundation values Sidra’s spiritual approach to art, free from organised religion, and invites her to embark on a journey that includes writing a book, recording a TV series, delivering a TED Talk, and conducting a lecture tour across Europe, Asia, and the United States. Excited by the opportunity, Sidra begins her research in Europe, believing that art serves as a testament to human evolution and interconnectedness. Journey to France and Musical Limitations Sidra’s year takes her to the Showway caves in Southern France, where she explores prehistoric art. Based in Monaco, she enjoys luxurious accommodations with a car and driver provided by the foundation. Her exploration is enriched by a unique constraint: listening exclusively to classical rock music, with U2 being her favourite band. The foundation’s interest lies in understanding how this musical limitation influences her creative process. Cultural Indulgence and Formula F4 Racing Sidra’s son joins her in Monaco, where they enjoy the Monaco Grand Prix from their apartment balcony overlooking the finish line. Mark and Sidra also plan indulgent cultural experiences, including a Lion King show and an Argentinian steak dinner. Their shared enthusiasm for the arts brings them closer as they immerse themselves in the vibrancy of Monaco. Cultural Experiences and Entertainment Preferences Sidra and Mark curate a cultural itinerary spanning five days, featuring a classical rock concert by U2, a theatre play (Romeo and Juliet), the musical Wicked, Puccini’s opera Tosca, and a captivating film. Sidra’s interest in Monet’s art inspires a virtual reality experience of his works, blending tradition with modern technology. Favourite Films, Music, and Fantasy Year In a reflective moment, Sidra reveals her love for Pride and Prejudice, while Mark shares his admiration for Terminator. They discuss their musical tastes, including Sidra’s fondness for Italian pianist Ludovico Einaudi. Mark envisions a fantasy cultural year for Sidra, featuring a book deal, a TV show, a TED Talk, and a global lecture tour. Their imaginative journey concludes with a celebratory lunch in Monaco with Sidra’s best friend, Roma, and her husband, as the foundation’s gratitude allows Sidra to expand her musical repertoire on her flight home. Sidra’s year is a celebration of artistic exploration and global connection. It’s a testament to the power of imagination, leaving a profound mark on the world and inspiring others through the beauty of soulscape art. You can find the WrigglingWorm Studio website here , and she's on LinkedIn here. Follow her on X here , Instagram here and Facebook here Would you like to be interviewed and promoted in this way? This is just one of several benefits of full membership at just £10 per month (€12/$12) and you may cancel any time. Join us here . Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network Join us as a full member for "done for you" profile, network, career, and/or business development support for just £10 per month. Cancel any time. https://www.artsandculturenetwork.com/join Here are some of our full member testimonials: "Had to write and say a huge thank you for the networking sessions you are running. Met some great people today, thank you so much." "Great speed networking session today - I really enjoyed it and got some really relevant and valuable connections!" "I've just joined!! £10 a month for a 1:1 business growth session, free networking, and access to all the events (on top of everything else!)?! This is INSANE value for money Mark and I'm so grateful for everything you've done to build such a supportive network of likeminded creative professionals." Forthcoming free networking events Mark Walmsley FRSA AGSM Chief Culture Vulture Arts & Culture Network www.ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com mark.walmsley@ArtsAndCultureNetwork.com