Uzma is a Rotherham based multi disciplinary artist who began her practice in abstract impressionist painting to explore her British-Pakistani heritage, her spirituality, and love for nature. Her work has been exhibited online & in person exhibitions.

She believes in the transformative power of art for wellbeing. Her work has involved social engagement with local community groups, organisations & festivals in South Yorkshire. This has included, Arabic calligraphy, abstract nature, Islamic art workshops & exploring identity and place through her projects

Amy Lilley joined Rotherham Council in Summer 2023 as the Creative Programming and Manager of the Events Team. The team are responsible for delivering large and small-scale events across Rotherham Town Centre with a range of local partners, including the council’s flagship cultural events Rotherham Show, the Christmas Light Switch On, UPLIFT and WOW Rotherham.

As well as offering communities and independent event organisers advice, small grants, commission opportunities and equipment to deliver their own unique events, the team collaborate with a range of services and partners such as Flux Rotherham, Children’s Capital of Culture and Rotherham Music to bring a rich variety of free cultural experiences to Rotherham’s residents. Since joining the team Amy’s favourite moment was starting a new event, Roots: Rotherham Street Carnival, which saw giant puppets parading across the town centre with thousands of visitors and businesses enjoying the spectacle. Community groups, creative workshops, performances and educational stalls explored our individual and Rotherham’s role in helping to tackle the climate crisis and brought the high street and public spaces to life, both of which are personally important to Amy.

Amy has joined the team with over 10 years of experience delivering multi-venue events, commissioning artists and programming for arts organisations in Wakefield, including Artwalk Wakefield, The Art House, Long Division Festival, The Hepworth Wakefield and Wakefield Council.

Rotherham Creative Networks new podcast - State of the Arts - will bring you a 30-minute show which will host conversations between creatives. This brand-new podcast will give us the chance to sit down with local creatives, learn about their practice and all corners of their world. From hobbies to full time careers, we’ll explore and have frank conversations about what it means to be creative in Rotherham. Wherever you are, you can be part of your network with our podcast.

Fancy getting involved? We have paid opportunities for hosts and guest speakers. To feature on our podcast, creatives and hosts can apply HERE

Any questions, please get in touch with our Project Lead, Noor Salih – [email protected]