From Swansea to the Capital
Stepping into this role at Creative Cardiff is a fantastic opportunity to broaden my horizons. Nothing excites me more than the thought of nose-diving into the wider creative scene in Wales— except from when the ol’ survival instincts kick in on a 2-carriage TFW service back home to Swansea. Growing up in Morriston, the town seemed a lot bigger then, where I must have joined every club; dance, drama, choir, various sports and arts and crafts. I was curious to enjoy everything, like being in a garden full of bubbles, running around trying to pop them all. Similarly now, I’ll try my hand at anything creative, whether it’s music, visual arts or textile design.
In a career-defining moment that remains unmatched to this day, I hold the title of Spookiest Dance Champion 2008. I dominated the dance floor with killer moves (literally - they were terrifying) like a mush possessed. To this day, no soul, dead or alive, has dared challenge me.
Creative Journey: The dancefloor to digital design
I attended Gower College Swansea, then studied Advertising Design at USW. I drifted towards audience theory — how words and images connected to products/services can carry such impact. During those years of practicing writing and digital design, music always seemed to diffuse through my work.
Moving to Cardiff opened my mind to the importance of community and surroundings; That sense of collaboration and growth is the flux capacitor that keeps the DeLorean running. Over time, I have truly been inspired by the brave and talented people that surround me in Cardiff and beyond, who I’m lucky to call friends. (Are Hallmark still hiring?)
In 2021, Anthem. Music Fund Wales was God’s hand (I’m Adam) into music development and still is, As their Communications Manager, empowering young musicians across Wales has been the centre of my work. Alongside that, questing in pockets of freelance work on projects like Forte and BBC Horizons to volunteering at music festivals like Green Man, Swn Festival, Welsh Music Prize - I can’t wait to see what 2025 has in store.
Fuelled by Music
Music is my most valued heirloom - truly my North Star. It has guided me through amazing times and subjected me to emotions I thought only chumps could feel…
From saving up my £2 pocket money for Q and NME magazines to singing along to my favourite band with a hundred thousand strangers, it takes centre stage in my life story. It's given me everything; my love, my friends, my work. Everything I am is acutely tuned in to the vibrations around me and to this day, I’m still in awe of how great art can be in its many adaptations. So absolutely blessed to experience it. (Hallmark Sillman).
There is an unfathomable amount of talent and awesome music coursing through our country’s veins right now. I’ve curated a playlist that features some of my favourite artists and songs that have been unleashed into Wales over the years. Take a slice!
Tune into Wales - playlist by Creative Cardiff | Spotify
Life Beyond the Desk
When I’m not working, you’ll either find me at my third gig of the week, or at home starting a new craft project in front of the 17 un-finished pieces begging to be put out of their misery. Or glued to a Shudder Original or any vessel of drag content. Party.
Looking Forward
Wales has so much to offer, and I can't wait to explore how creativity empowers people in their worlds. My mission is to work alongside the Creative Cardiff team to illustrate and deliver stories from all creative industries that inspire and shape our community. Bant â ni, boys!
