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For the next six month, Amelia Coburn is joining the City Arts team as an Intern through Lakeside Arts’ Creative Pathways programme.
Tell us a little about yourself?
Hello! My name’s Amelia. I recently graduated from the University of Nottingham with a degree in modern languages (French, Spanish & Russian, with some Serbo-Croatian modules thrown in there for good measure)! I’m absolutely thrilled to be part of this year’s cohort for the Creative Pathways Internship programme. Thanks to the programme, I’ll be spending the next 6 months working at City Arts. The arts are my main passion in life, particularly music. I’ve spent a good part of my life listening to, writing and performing it. I love telling stories and connecting with others through song. When I’m not working or playing music, I’ll probably be running, making jewellery, or rewatching ‘Gregory’s Girl’ for the hundredth time.
What are you most looking forward to as a Creative Pathways Intern?
I’ve never worked for an organisation like City Arts before. I’m really looking forward to learning the new skills that come hand in hand with this internship. Things like applying for funding and helping to organise community projects. As part of the programme, I’ll also be attending networking events with the other interns. At these we get to hear from people who have various careers in the creative sector. Throughout my time as a student at Nottingham, practically all my free time was spent immersed in the local arts scene. I attend concerts, exhibitions and events across the city. It’ll be really special getting to know the people behind Nottingham’s vibrant cultural life and to work with them behind the scenes.
Why are you interested in community arts?
For me, life without the arts would be completely empty,so it makes me sad to know there are communities not able to participate in culture due to financial or social barriers. Over the years, I have volunteered to play concerts in care homes and, more recently, a virtual gig on Zoom for adults with learning disabilities. Closer to home I have witnessed my Gran, who has dementia, be visibly moved when she hears music or poetry. I’ve seen how powerful the arts can be and how it can better people’s lives. I want to ensure everyone has access to it and likewise feel a part of their local community. City Arts’ motto ‘art is for everyone’ really resonates with me. I feel very proud to be placed with an organisation that I truly believe in.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
It’s been really lovely meeting the team at City Arts who have been so supportive. They’ve told me to never be too afraid to ask questions, which is definitely something I’ve been guilty of in the past. During our first Zoom induction day with the other interns, we were told to be a “yes” person. Say ‘yes’ to every opportunity that comes by, even if it’s something you normally wouldn’t be interested in or would be too scared to try! I’m really excited to see what opportunities the next 6 months will bring with my internship at City Arts.