Shows
The Three BellsThe end must justify the means... by Adrian Ellis (Reflections from The Three Bells)In this new episode of Reflections from The Three Bells, Adrian Ellis, shares insights on capital project planning and the value of defining purpose and impact before building and design.External references: Manal Ataya: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mataya-uae/ Sharjah Museums Authority: https://www.sharjahmuseums.ae/ The International Museum Leadership Congress (IMCC): https://www.museum.construction/The Bilbao effect: how Frank Gehry’s Guggenheim started a global craze: https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2017/oct/01/bilbao-effect-frank-gehry-guggenheim-global-craze Daniel Libeskind: https://libeskind.com/ Zaha Hadid: https://www.zaha-hadid.com/ Tadao Ando: https://www.tadao-ando.com/youth_2025/ Rem Koolhaas / OMA: http...2025-07-1708 min
The Three BellsS5:E7 The Google Arts and Culture Lab... Freya Salway, Head of the LabOur host, Hilary Knight speaks with Freya Salway, Head of the Lab at Google Arts and Culture Lab which engages artists, institutions and audiences through experimentation with new digital technology. They discuss the lab’s mission, collaborations, and approach to R&D and partnerships.External referencesGoogle Arts and CultureThe LabExperiments with GoogleGoogle Arts & Culture and British choreographer, Wayne McGregor developed an AI capable of predicting dance moves in his particular styleJonathan Yeo’s large-scale bronze sculptural self-portrait entitled Homage to Paolozzi (Self Portrait)Future Relics, A collaboration between Google Arts & Culture, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sang...2025-07-0327 min
The Three BellsBig immersive beasts... by Hilary Knight (Reflections from The Three Bells)In this new episode of Reflections from The Three Bells, Hilary Knight explores the fast-evolving immersive experience landscape, where big players scale up rapidly and independent creators strive to remain empowered to help shape its future.External references:Netflix House Set to Launch as Immersive Retail and Entertainment DestinationABBA Voyage, LondonThe Sphere, Las Vegas + Correction: the Sphere is located in Las Vegas, Nevada, not Los Angeles, California.The Mukaab in RiyadhAbout the contributor: Hilary Knight is a creative leader with over 20 years of experience driving strategy, innovation, and digital transformation for cultural organisations w...2025-06-1907 min
The Three BellsS5:E6 We need earth energy... Shey 'Rí Acu' Rivera Ríos, Artist – Writer – Cultural WorkerOur host, Stephanie Fortunato speaks with Shey 'Rí Acu' Rivera Ríos, Artist – Writer – Cultural Worker from Providence, Rhode Island, by way of Borikén. Together, they delve into Shey’s visionary, interdisciplinary work at the intersection of art, civic engagement, and cultural advocacy. At the heart of their conversation: storytelling, identity, community, and resilience.External references: About Shey’s Artistic Practice Studio LOBAAntigonx, a queer, Latinx story inspired by the Greek tragedy of AntigoneYoung LordsVioleta ParraJune JordanFrida KahloThe City of Providence’s Department of Art, Culture + Tourism (ACT) cultural plan, PVDx2031: A Cultural Plan for Culture ShiftEl...2025-06-0544 min
The Three BellsLessons from AEA's Cultural Infrastructure Index... by Adrian Ellis (Reflections from The Three Bells)In this new episode of Reflections from The Three Bells, Adrian Ellis, shares key insights from AEA Consulting’s Cultural Infrastructure Index – now in its ninth edition.External references: AEA Consulting’s 2024 Cultural Infrastructure IndexContributor's bio: Adrian Ellis is the founder of AEA Consulting (1990) and the Global Cultural Districts Network (2013). He has worked in senior management and as a board member in both museums and the performing arts and as a strategy consultant to leading clients in the cultural, public, and business sectors around the world. + 2025-05-2206 min
The Three BellsS5:E5 The arts are the way we serve... Rachel Moore, President & CEO, The Music Center LAOur host, Adrian Ellis, speaks with Rachel Moore, President & CEO of The Music Center in Los Angeles, about the organization’s evolving role as both a cultural and civic anchor – from its response to recent local challenges and its leadership in the newly designated Grand Avenue Cultural District, to its commitment to democratic values, inclusive programming, and long-term relevance.Guest bio:Rachel Moore is the President & CEO of The Music Center in Los Angeles, one of the largest performing arts centers in the U.S., where she oversees programming, civic partnerships, and a portfolio of over $3B in...2025-05-0830 min
The Three BellsPracticing radical joy... by Stephanie Fortunato (Reflections from The Three Bells)In this new episode of Reflections from The Three Bells, Stephanie Fortunato explores the power of practicing radical joy as a guiding principle for cultural leadership in an increasingly divided and hostile era where empathy is too often mistaken for weakness...Contributor bio:Stephanie Fortunato is Director of Special Projects of the Global Cultural Districts Network. Her expertise sits at the intersection of cultural planning and urban development, collaborating with local communities on creating policies and partnerships to strengthen neighbourhoods and transform public spaces. + 2025-04-2408 min
The Three BellsS5:E4 Exploring the gendered city... Nourhan Bassam, Founding Director, The Gendered CityOur host, Stephanie Fortunato, speaks to Nourhan Bassam, Founding Director of The Gendered City. They discuss the necessity to rethink how cities can be more socially inclusive, the role Cultural Districts can play in promoting that inclusivity, and the many inspiring initiatives Nourhan is championing to push feminist urbanism forward. External references: The Gendered CityThe Gendered City, 2023 bookFEM DESSimone de BeauvoirDolores HaydenCity with a female face: how modern Vienna was shaped by womenThe world’s most feminist city: how Umeå in Sweden became an idyll for womenGuest bio:Nourhan Bassam, a feminist urba...2025-04-1043 min
The Three BellsMapping empathy... by Hilary Knight (Reflections from The Three Bells)Mapping empathy… In this audio essay, Hilary Knight shares the many benefits of empathy in improving an organization’s workflow and enhancing visitor experience – and offers a framework to leverage it.External references: Frans de Waal, Evolutionary BiologistMario Mikulincer, PsychologistPhillip Shaver, PsychologistSeung Chan Lim (Slim) at TEDxWellesleyCollege: How Empathy Fuels the Creative ProcessBill Drayton, Social entrepreneur and CEOContributor bio:Hilary Knight is a creative leader with over 20 years of experience driving strategy, innovation, and digital transformation for cultural organisations worldwide. Currently a Senior Associate with AEA Consulting, she has held senior roles at the BBC...2025-03-2707 min
The Three BellsS5:E3 The murmurs of future potential... Anab Jain, Co-Founder & Creative Director, SuperfluxOur host, Hilary Knight, interviews Anab Jain, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Superflux, to explore the studio’s innovative work of creating visceral experiences that encourage audiences to imagine theoretical futures, and the power of tapping into human emotion.References:Superflux: https://superflux.in/#Anab serves as Professor of Design Investigations at the dieAngewandte, University of Applied Arts in Vienna: https://www.dieangewandte.at/en/institutes/design/industrial_design_2Mitigation of Shock, Singapore: https://superflux.in/index.php/work/mitigation-of-shock-singapore/#The Vault of Life, Museum of the Future, Dubai: https://superflux.in/index.php/work/the-vault-of-life-in-museum-of-the-future/#Th...2025-03-1330 min
The Three BellsThe status quo is not an option... by Adrian Ellis (Reflections from The Three Bells)In this second episode of Reflections from The Three Bells, our host, Adrian Ellis, shares his personal perspective on the evolving responsibilities of cultural institutions and their role in navigating an increasingly polarized world.External references: When background becomes foreground editorial by Adrian Ellis, beginning at 28:35: https://www.thethreebells.net/episodes/s2e8Stathis Kalyvas: https://www.politics.ox.ac.uk/person/stathis-kalyvasTrump Made Chair of Kennedy Center as Its President Is Fired: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/12/arts/music/trump-kennedy-center-chairman.htmlTrump seeks greater control of independent regulators with his new executive order: https://apnews.com/article/t...2025-02-2708 min
The Three BellsS5:E2 Holding emotional space... Natasha Sharma, co-Curator, Govandi Arts FestivalOur host, Stephanie Fortunato, speaks with Natasha Sharma, co-Curator of the Govandi Arts Festival, about how engagement with the arts and creative interventions can help displaced or overlooked communities reclaim space, agency, and narratives of belonging.2025-02-1344 min
The Three BellsWe must unleash radical thought... by Stephanie Fortunato (Reflections from The Three Bells)In this first episode of our new format, our host, Stephanie Fortunato, shares her latest reflections on the state of our world and our industry through a thoughtful audio essay: We must unleash radical thought…ReferencesSouthern California wildfires: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/January_2025_Southern_California_wildfiresThe Linotype Daily: https://dwriletterpress.net/the-linotype-daily-1The Linotype Daily Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelinotypedaily/Linotype Machine: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linotype_machineBrain rot, Oxford Word of the Year 2024: https://corp.oup.com/word-of-the-year/Harry Belafonte’s Speech accepting NAACP Spingarn Medal: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f6...2025-01-3011 min
The Three BellsS5:E1 Built to heal a nation... Elaine Bedell, CEO of Southbank CentreOur host, Adrian Ellis, sits down with Elaine Bedell, OBE, CEO of Southbank Centre to discuss what it means to lead Europe’s largest centre for the arts. Guest bioElaine Bedell has been CEO of Southbank Centre since 2017. Southbank Centre is the largest arts centre in Europe and the UK’s 5th most visited attraction. Over 20 million people a year visit the 11-acre site, which houses 3 performing arts venues, including the Royal Festival Hall, as well as the Hayward Gallery and the National Poetry Library, 14 bars and restaurants, a food market and th...2025-01-1637 minThe Three BellsS4:E12 The Routledge Handbook of Urban Cultural Planning... Rana Amirtahmasebi & Jason Schupbach, Co-EditorsOur host Stephanie Fortunato sits down with Rana Amirtahmasebi and Jason Schupbach, co-editors of The Routledge Handbook of Urban Cultural Planning, to be released in December 2024. The Handbook is the first survey of the latest and greatest thinking in urban cultural planning in 10 years, exploring approaches to bringing more cultural vibrancy and engagement in sustainable urban development. The book focuses on the spatial and social organization of urban spaces that facilitate artistic production, foster community well-being, and nurture expressions of civic identity.AcknowledgmentThe Handbook is a partnership between the editors and t...2024-11-2131 minThe Three BellsS4:E11 Welcome to MOWAA... Ore Disu, Director of The Institute, Museum of West African Art (MOWAA)Our host, Adrian Ellis speaks to Ore Disu, Director of The Institute, Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) on the mission and vision of MOWAA and how the institution is thinking about culture, museum praxis and the very idea of “The Museum” differently and within the African context.External references:MOWAA website: https://wearemowaa.org/Museum of West African Art Announces the Opening of the MOWAA Institute: https://wearemowaa.org/mowaa-institute-launch-announcement/The National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM): https://museum.ng/Igun Street: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Igun_StreetBenin Bronzes: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki...2024-10-2438 minThe Three BellsS4:E10 The responsible adoption of AI... Rob Cawston, Director of Digital and Service Transformation, National Library of ScotlandOur host, Hilary Knight speaks to Rob Cawston, Director of Digital and Service Transformation, National Library of Scotland on how the NLS is taking an ethical stance on the use of AI and how this work is tied to its mission and values.External References:National Library of Scotland: https://www.nls.uk/National Library of Scotland AI Statement: https://data.nls.uk/projects/ai-statement/National Library of Scotland’s tools: https://data.nls.uk/tools/2023 SAG-AFTRA strike: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2023_SAG-AFTRA_strikeSmithsonian’s AI Values Statement: https://datascience.si.edu/ai-values-statementSmithsonian’s co-authored the pa...2024-09-2634 minThe Three BellsS4:E9 From New Haven with love... Adriane Jefferson in conversation with Stephanie FortunatoOur host, Stephanie Fortunato speaks to Adriane Jefferson, Director of Cultural Affairs for the City of New Haven. They discuss cultural equity planning at a city level, the fundamental shifts it has facilitated for New Haven, as well as the challenges and opportunities of creating a living and actionable plan to create a more equitable and more culturally diverse ecosystem, written for and by the people. External references:City of New Haven Department of Arts, Culture and Tourism: https://www.newhavenct.gov/government/departments-divisions/arts-culture-tourismCity of New Haven’s Cultural Equity Plan (2022): https://www.newhavenct.gov/go...2024-08-2939 minThe Three BellsS4:E8 Welcome to Saadiyat Island… HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak in conversation with Adrian EllisOur host, Adrian Ellis, speaks to His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chair, Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, on the ambitious plans to position Abu Dhabi as a major tourism and cultural destination – particularly through the Saadiyat Island Cultural District, home to Louvre Abu Dhabi and a host of other world-class cultural institutions set to open their doors in the coming years. External references: Abu Dhabi DCT: https://dct.gov.ae/en/default.aspxDCT Museums and Cultural Assets: https://dct.gov.ae/en/what.we.do/culture/museums.aspxSaadiyat Cultural District: https://scdabudhabi.ae/enLou...2024-08-0133 minThe Three BellsS4:E7 Enabling digital return… Tasha James in conversation with Hilary KnightSummaryOur host, Hilary Knight, speaks to Tasha James on the important role digital repatriation plays in enabling the maintenance and revitalization of Indigenous cultures, and the considerations critical to this work. Tasha, a Wiradjuri woman who grew up in Central West New South Wales, Australia, is an Indigenous audiovisual archive specialist and is currently ABC Archives Indigenous Collections & Community Access Manager at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). Tasha James BioTasha is an Indigenous Audiovisual Archives specialist and is currently the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) Archives In...2024-07-0440 minThe Three BellsS4:E6 From Expo to City… Marjan Faraidooni in conversation with Adrian EllisOur host Adrian Ellis speaks to Marjan Faraidooni, Chief of Education & Culture and Chief of HR at Expo City Dubai about how Expo City transformed itself from a major event venue into a vibrant cultural ecosystem unto itself.References:Expo City Dubai: https://www.expocitydubai.com/Expo 2020 Dubai Museum opening: https://blooloop.com/museum/news/expo-2020-dubai-museum-opening/Exposition Universelle of 1867: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exposition_Universelle_(1867)Exhibition Road Cultural Group: https://www.discoversouthken.com/1998 Lisbon Specialised Expo: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Expo_%2798Expo 2010 Shanghai China: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Expo_2010Guest bio:2024-06-0642 minThe Three BellsS4:E5 Mastering public spaces... Luisa Bravo in conversation with Stephanie FortunatoOur host Stephanie Fortunato speaks with Luisa Bravo, founder and president of City Space Architecture. They discuss principles for designing inclusively and creating moments for sharing and togetherness, and how it takes a village to create successful public spaces – including the importance of working with collaborators that might not agree with you.ReferencesCity Space Architecture: https://www.cityspacearchitecture.org/Mastering Public Space Magazine: https://www.masteringpublicspace.org/Ascoli Piceno: https://www.italymagazine.com/ascoli-picenoJan Gehl: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jan_GehlLife Between Buildings by Jan Gehl: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5597655-life-between-buildingsThe Jo...2024-05-0940 minThe Three BellsS4:E4 The sound of music… Shain Shapiro in conversation with Adrian EllisOur host Adrian Ellis speaks with Shain Shapiro, one of the world’s leading music policy thinkers and advocates, founder of Sound Diplomacy, director of the Center for Music Ecosystems, and author of This Must be the Place: How Music Can Make Your City Better. They discuss the role of music in the urban ecosystem, what a city’s music strategy can be, and the ‘edge’ music has as an urban policy tool.ReferencesShain Shapiro Website: https://www.shainshapiro.com/Sound Diplomacy: https://www.sounddiplomacy.com/This Must Be The Place: H...2024-04-1135 minThe Three BellsS4:E3 Awe, wonder, delight, magic… Jason Bruges in conversation with Hilary KnightOur host, Hilary Knight, speaks with Jason Bruges, Founder and Artistic Director of Jason Bruges Studio, who create site-specific artworks and dynamic immersive experiences. They discuss the task of animating architecture, taking inspiration from nature and natural systems and devising opportunities for co-creating and community building in public spaces.Jason Bruges BioJason Bruges Studio has become internationally renowned for producing innovative installations, interventions and ground breaking works. This practice involves creating interactive spaces and surfaces that sit between the world of architecture, site specific installation art and interaction design. Considered a pioneer of this...2024-03-1436 minThe Three BellsS4:E2 From Calgary with Love... Alex Sarian & Nicholas Bell in conversation with Criena GehrkeIn her swan song as a host for The Three Bells, Criena Gehrke (Executive Director, Queensland Theatre) speaks with two leading figures in Calgary’s arts and culture scene, Alex Sarian (President & CEO, Arts Commons) and Nicholas R. Bell (President & CEO, Glenbow Museum). The dynamic conversation covers plenty of ground: from the magic and warmth of Calgary’s cultural scene to the personal and institutional responsibilities carried on the road to reconciliation with indigenous communities. The Three Bells podcast is produced by AEA Consulting for the Global Cultural Districts Network (GCDN). Sound mixing and theme music by Artwave Studio. ...2024-02-1548 minThe Three BellsS4:E1 A Feral Commons... Tairone Bastien in conversation with Stephanie FortunatoSummaryIn the first episode of our 2024 season, our host Stephanie Fortunato speaks with Tairone Bastien, curator of 'A Feral Commons', a global public art co-commission project that examines the often unrecognized co-dependence and open-ended collaborations between human and non-human beings. The project is led by Alserkal Advisory in collaboration with GCDN and with support from UAP – and features site-specific installations located in three cultural districts worldwide: Alserkal Avenue, Kingston Creative, and Victoria Yards.Guest bioTairone Bastien (he/him) is an independent curator based in Toronto and an Assistant Professor in the Criticism an...2024-01-1847 minThe Three BellsS3:E12 The puppet is innocent... Basil Jones & Adrian Kohler in conversation with Stephanie FortunatoIn the final episode of the 2023 season, our host, Stephanie Fortunato, speaks with Basil Jones and Adrian Kohler, founders of Handspring Puppet Company, whose monumental works include War Horse and Little Amal. They discuss the role of puppetry in storytelling, building new audiences, activism and bridging connections between communities. The Three Bells podcast is produced by AEA Consulting for the Global Cultural Districts Network (GCDN). Sound mixing and theme music by Artwave Studio.External references:Handspring Puppet Company: https://www.handspringpuppet.com/Handspring Puppet Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/c...2023-11-2346 minThe Three BellsS3:E11 Expressive interaction... Daniel Iregui in conversation with Hilary KnightSummary:In this episode, our host, Hilary Knight, speaks with Daniel Iregui, new media artist and founder of Montreal-based digital art studio Iregular, on origin stories, the value of giving audience control over the artwork, testing and R&D; and the concept of ‘play’ in interactive art, online and in-person.Guest bio:Daniel Iregui is a Montreal-based New Media artist who creates interactive sculptures, immersive spaces, and architectural interventions using technology as both a tool and an aesthetic. He works with the infinite and random combinations produced by interactive systems that the audience infl...2023-10-2639 minThe Three BellsS3:E10 Investing in individuals… Marcus Desando in conversation with Adrian EllisSummary:In this episode, our host, Adrian Ellis, speaks with Marcus Desando, Director of the Prince Claus Fund. They discuss the role of arts and culture in today’s global socio-economic landscape, the importance of trust and mentorship for the sector, and how the Prince Claus Fund’s distinctive approach uplifts creative individuals committed to making meaningful changes in challenging contexts.Guest bio:Marcus Desando is the Director of The Prince Claus Fund. He was previously the CEO of The Arts and Culture Trust, Johannesburg. Prior to that, he was the CEO of Gauteng Opera in J...2023-09-2835 minThe Three BellsS3:E9 From Detroit with love... David Cowan in conversation with Stephanie FortunatoSummaryIn this episode, our host Stephanie Fortunato speaks with David Cowan, Chief Public Spaces Officer at the Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP). David expands on the work of DDP in developing public spaces that place the wishes and needs of Detroiters at the forefront. The two go on to discuss the numerous attributes that create a successful vibrant public space; from programming to financial models to public safety, DDP considers it all.External referencesDowntown Detroit Partnership: https://downtowndetroit.org/Dlectricy – outdoor visual light + art celebration: https://dlectricity.com/Beacon Park – new park in Detroit buil...2023-08-3139 minThe Three BellsS3:E8 Navigating the digital frontier... Hilary Knight in conversation with Adrian EllisIn this episode, our host Adrian Ellis speaks with Hilary Knight, Senior Consultant at AEA Consulting. The two focus on all things digital within the cultural sector; from engaging online and in-person audiences to the importance of developing digital strategies, Hilary shares her extensive knowledge on this crucial and fast-evolving field.External references:Hilary Knight’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hilarycpknight/The Tate: https://www.tate.org.uk/The Tank Museum: https://tankmuseum.org/The Tank Museum’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/thetankmuseum59 Productions: https://59productions.co.uk/Kings Cross: https://www...2023-08-0340 minThe Three BellsS3:E7 A monumental pull... Paul Farber in conversation with Stephanie FortunatoIn this episode, our host Stephanie Fortunato speaks with Paul Farber, Director and Co-Founder of Monument Lab. They discuss the origins of Monument Lab and the value of understanding, setting, and respecting boundaries for healthy collaboration. The two also discuss Monument Lab’s Pulling Together – an upcoming public art exhibition taking place from August 18th – September 18th, 2023 – which will bring forward new perspectives on Washington D.C.’s National Mall.External references:Monument Lab’s Website: https://monumentlab.com/Marian Anderson and the Easter Sunday Concert, April 9, 1939: https://youtu.be/XF9Quk0QhSEMore about Marian Anderson, and how she...2023-07-0638 minThe Three BellsS3:E6 Breaking open the box... Naseema Asif & Peter Emerson in conversation with Criena GehrkeIn this episode of The Three Bells, our host, Criena Gehrke sits down with Senior Architect Naseema Asif and Studio Director Peter Emerson, from international design collective RIOS. The two share their insights on what goes into making a project successful, from incorporating evolution to exploring unanticipated angles and embracing a touch of 'messiness' throughout the process.External references:RIOS websiteThe Music Center PlazaSan Diego’s Balboa ParkHouston’s Lynn Watt Square For Performing ArtsGold Coast Hi-LightsLampposts of progress: Hi-LightsGold Coast Council votes to remove public art installation 'Hi-Lights' from the M1 at YatalaNase...2023-06-0842 minThe Three BellsS3:E5 Sustainable development in cultural districts – Helen Kearney & Kat Pegler in conversation with Stephanie FortunatoShort Summary: In this episode, our host Stephanie Fortunato talks to Helen Kearney and Kat Pegler, authors of the recently released report: Sustainable Development in Cultural Districts – commissioned by The City of London Corporation with the support of GCDN. References:Sustainable Development in Cultural Districts Report – a report commissioned by The City of London Corporation with the support of GCDN.The Quartier des spectacles – a cultural district in downtown Montreal and a member of GCDN.7 Square Endeavour – a collaboration-driven programme with a mission to sustainably transform seven urban squares around the world.The Rotter...2023-05-1137 minThe Three BellsS3:E4 There and back again – Basadi Dibeela in conversation with Adrian EllisIn this episode, our host Adrian Ellis speaks with Botswana-based curator, DJ, and arts journalist Basadi Dibeela. Basadi shares her cultural journey that spanned various disciplines, in various countries and continents. The two then talk about Basadi’s recently published article for GCDN, Opportunities for Cultural Planning in Sub-Saharan Africa: Lessons from attending the GCDN 2022 Convening.References:Opportunities for Cultural Planning in Sub-Saharan Africa: Lessons from attending the GCDN 2022 Convening – by Basadi DibeelaLatitudes CuratorLab – Online curatorial residency for emerging curators in Africa:Basadi’s CuratorLab Viewing RoomBlantyre Arts Festival (BAF) – Arts Festival that promotes Malawian arts and cultur...2023-04-1338 minThe Three BellsS3:E3 Committed to creative resilience – Matthew Ché Kowal & Molly North in conversation with Stephanie FortunatoSummary: In this episode, our host Stephanie Fortunato sits down with Matthew Ché Kowal and Molly North, founders of Majestic Collaborations, a company that takes an experiential learning approach to community preparedness, specifically using music, art, and cultural festivals as an immersive classroom. The three discuss Majestic Collaborations’ Four Pillars model for successful events: Safety, Sustainability, Accessibility, and Community Engagement. References:Standing Rock Protest, 2016 – 2017 protests against the Dakota Access pipeline - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dakota_Access_Pipeline_protestsTour de Fat, bicycle parade by New Belgium Brewing company - https://www.newbelg...2023-03-1636 minThe Three BellsS3:E2 A vision of impact – Elly Andriopoulou in conversation with Criena GehrkeSummaryIn this episode, our host Criena Gehrke talks with Elly Andriopoulou, Managing Director of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC). The two discuss the origins and evolution of SNFCC – as well as its early successes, stemming from a strong vision of enacting social impact and the ambition to be a cultural center for all. Elly speaks about the social impact of SNFCC and highlights the importance of building impact studies into planning processes, as those can put into perspective the scale and reach of what a capital infrastructure project can bring to its...2023-02-1639 minThe Three BellsS3:E1 The distinctive contribution of architecture – Vincent Chang in conversation with Adrian EllisSummary: In this episode, our host Adrian Ellis speaks with Vincent Chang, Deputy Chairman and Partner at Grimshaw Architects. Together, they explore the distinctive contribution of architecture. Having been with Grimshaw for over 20 years, Vincent also talks about his role managing the practice, and how vital it is for all to share a strong commitment to process – emphasizing the importance of understanding projects more holistically, as well as the butterfly effect that can happen by investing time and capital on initial concepts. Later in the episode, Vincent shares how to create succes...2023-01-1933 minThe Three BellsS2:E10 Curating a cultural powerhouse – Simon Cane in conversation with Stephanie FortunatoSummaryIn this episode, our host Stephanie Fortunato speaks with Simon Cane, Director of Cultural Engagement at University College of London (UCL) and Chair at Kings Cross Knowledge Quarter (KQ). Simon plays a large role in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park’s development, East Bank, a new cultural and educational powerhouse composed of five organizations located in London, UK. Simon speaks about the benefits and challenges that come with having multiple organizations in one district. He also talks about the different programs and opportunities East Bank has created that promote inclusive growth, diversification within the sector and community engagement. He...2022-11-2439 minThe Three BellsS2:E9 The complexities and simplicities of placemaking – Ramon Marrades in conversation with Criena GehrkeSummary: In this episode, our host Criena Gehrke speaks with Ramon Marrades, urban economist, and Director of Placemaking Europe. The two dive right into deep discussion on the human condition and our definition of progress. Ramon shares insightful thoughts on what works when connecting people to their environment, emphasizing the importance of authenticity. They later explore creative bureaucracy, how to create a strong public policy, if strategies should shift post-covid, and much more. Ramon also speaks about Placemaking Week, Placemaking Europe’s flagship conference and festival taking place in Pontevedra, Spain, 27-30 September 2022, and what he hopes wil...2022-09-2939 minThe Three BellsS2:E8 Creating unique spaces for culture in Copenhagen – Jesper Koefoed-Melson in conversation with AdrianSummary:In this episode, our host Adrian Ellis speaks with Jesper Koefoed-Melson, Founding Director of Kulturdistriktet, about activating unique spaces in Copenhagen with cultural events and festivals, fostering a vibrant community and enriching the city’s cultural landscape. Jesper discusses Kulturdistriktet unique framework, placing emphasis on the importance of trusting the artists and creating an open platform to all participants, as opposed more traditional approaches to developing cultural events. He also talks about the birth of Kulturdistriktet, and how he capitalized on the abundant down-time resulting from the pandemic to research different models for...2022-09-0135 minThe Three BellsS2:E7 Networks for arts, culture, health, and wellbeing – Rosie Dow in conversation with Stephanie FortunatoEpisode Summary:In this episode, our host Stephanie Fortunato speaks with Rosie Dow, Manager of the WHO Collaborating Centre for Arts and Health at UCL. They talk about Rosie’s new role at UCL, her previous work leading “HARP”, the benefits of singing, as well as the essential role of networks in the field of arts and health. External References:The World Health Organisation Collaborating Centre for Arts & Health is based at University College London. Health Arts Research People (HARP) – a program that allowed arts interventions to play a more prominent role in the health and wellb...2022-08-1132 minThe Three BellsS2:E6 Playful public spaces – Ilana Altman in conversation with Stephanie FortunatoSummary: In this episode, our host Stephanie Fortunato speaks with Ilana Altman, Co-Executive Director, about The Bentway’s artful and playful approach to activating public spaces – as illustrated by their 2021 Playing in Public season and accompanying Play Provocations resource that encourages cities to become more play-friendly. They discuss the evolution of The Bentway as a platform for connected urban life, and the importance of programming public spaces to be not only responsive to the needs of communities, but to also encourage creative practice. Ilana also shares the plans for The Bentway's STREET season, which promises a summer of pu...2022-05-1954 minThe Three BellsS2:E5 What's in a name? – Linda C. Harrison in conversation with Adrian EllisSummary:In this episode, our host Adrian Ellis speaks with Linda C. Harrison, Director & CEO, about her bold leadership agenda to transform the Newark Museum of Art into a relational organisation that not merely sits in, but belongs to its community. They discuss the evolution in the Museum’s organisational culture instigated by Linda, both internally and externally – from a significant name change, to an ambitious real estate development plan that aims to diversify income as well as to support downtown Newark’s emergence as a vibrant creative hub. After, Adrian is joined by fello...2022-04-2855 minThe Three BellsS2:E4 Knocking on doors – Lisa Havilah in conversation with Criena GehrkeSummary:In this episode, our host Criena Gehrke speaks with Lisa Havilah, Chief Executive of the Powerhouse Museum in Australia. They unpack the visionary approach she has crafted over her career of shaping cultural institutions and precincts into culturally and commercially vibrant hubs. They discuss the imperative need to maintain your community engaged, to operate and program inclusively, as well as the significance of keeping an open-door policy, particularly towards emerging artists and cultural leaders. After, Criena is joined by fellow host Adrian Ellis to discuss key takeaways. They reflect on the importance of...2022-04-0749 minThe Three BellsS2:E3 Beyond physical infrastructure – Vilma Jurkute in conversation with Adrian EllisSummary:In this episode, our host Adrian Ellis speaks with Vilma Jurkute, Executive Director of Alserkal in Dubai. They discuss how Alserkal’s commitment to facilitating open dialogue, mapping geographies of practice, and building a repository of knowledge for future generations have catalysed the development of a cultural ecosystem that goes beyond physical infrastructure. They also chat about the vital role cultural institutions play in social transformation and fostering a sense of place and belonging. After, Adrian is joined by fellow host Stephanie Fortunato to discuss key takeaways. They reflect on how cultural institutions are...2022-03-1746 minThe Three BellsS2:E2 We Are Dallas Arts – Lily Cabatu Weiss in conversation with Stephanie FortunatoSummary: In this episode, our host Stephanie Fortunato speaks with Lily Cabatu Weiss, Executive Director of the Dallas Arts District. They talk about the importance of collaboration amongst cultural leaders and institutions, especially in times of crisis. Lily shares how an ongoing dialogue between Dallas arts and cultural leaders enabled unprecedented resource-sharing, knowledge transfer, synergy, and increased support from all stakeholders – culminating with the We Are Dallas Arts initiative. After, Stephanie is joined by fellow host Criena Gehrke to discuss key takeaways. Despite the challenges involved in sustaining collective action and vision, they acknowledge its power to produce im...2022-02-2450 minThe Three BellsS2:E1 Knowing your audience: lessons from West Kowloon – Kingsley Jayasekera in conversation with Adrian EllisSummary:In this episode, our host Adrian Ellis speaks with Kingsley Jayasekera, former Director of Marketing and Customer Experience, at the West Kowloon Cultural District. They reflect on his near decade-long experience in Hong Kong and discuss the importance of cultivating arts audiences through creating holistic customer experiences – and using social media for outreach and engagement. After, Adrian is joined by Criena Gehrke to discuss key takeaways. They highlight the challenges of audience development, including the ethical issues of data collection and privacy. References:West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD), an in...2022-02-031h 01The Three BellsS1:E12 Developing and revitalizing communities – Veronica Smith in conversation with Stephanie FortunatoSummary: In this episode, our host Stephanie Fortunato speaks with Veronica Smith, author of When Communities Disappear. They discuss the interdependent relationship between economic and community development, and emphasize the imperative need to build and sustain healthy communities by being authentic and enabling access to resources. After, Stephanie is joined by fellow host Adrian Ellis to discuss key takeaways. Through reflecting on Stephanie’s experiences with community development, they concur with the need to build diverse coalitions to foster local ownership and policy decisions that are informed by the plurality of place histories.Re...2021-12-2341 minThe Three BellsS1:E11 Civic creativity and creative bureaucracy – Charles Landry in conversation with Adrian EllisSummary: In this episode, our host Adrian Ellis speaks with author and renowned urban expert Charles Landry. They go over his remarkable career, retracing the route and influences which led him to his famed Creative City concept. They also discuss his current focus on creative bureaucracy – best illustrated by his annual Creative Bureaucracy Festival. After, Adrian is joined by Stephanie Fortunato to explore key takeaways. They discuss the practical applications of Charles’ work, especially as an ethical reminder to cultural institutions to prioritize ideals of openness and curiosity in an increasingly polarized world.DOW...2021-12-021h 01The Three BellsS1:E10 On storytelling, leadership, and wisdom – Wesley Enoch in conversation with Criena GehrkeSummary: In this episode, our host Criena Gehrke speaks with playwright, artistic director, and Indigenous leader Wesley Enoch about the role of storytelling, leadership and wisdom in elevating and amplifying the voices of Indigenous artists and cultures. They also highlight the importance of advocating for the intrinsic value of the arts, particularly in terms of celebrating differences and encouraging dialogue. After, Criena is joined by fellow host Stephanie Fortunato to discuss key takeaways. They emphasize the critical need to support the next generation of cultural leaders and arts administrators, particularly Indigenous leadership....2021-11-1156 minThe Three BellsS1:E9 Toward intercultural understanding and empathy – Manal Ataya in conversation with Criena GehrkeSummary:In this episode, our host Criena Gehrke speaks with Manal Ataya, the Director General of the Sharjah Museums authority. They discuss the educational value of the arts, particularly in terms of promoting inclusivity and diversity as well as cultivating empathy. After, Criena is joined by fellow host Stephanie Fortunato to discuss key takeaways. Drawing on their own experiences, they expand on the importance of the arts in enabling cross-cultural experiences and exchanges – and explore how cultural leaders could create more collective experiences that invite solutions to the social, political, and ecological challenges the world faces today....2021-09-3059 minThe Three BellsS1:E8 Reimagining the future of theatre and live performance – Jesse Cameron Alick in conversation with Adrian EllisSummary:In this episode, Adrian Ellis speaks with Jesse Cameron Alick, about his recently published study, commissioned by the Sundance Institute, based on extensive interviews of artists, arts administrators and thought leaders. The focus is the state of live performance as we 'emerge from the cave' of Covid. They discuss the key findings and themes of the study – particularly the skepticism that artists interviewed expressed about the the commitment of larger cultural institutions to artists, to their local communities, and to equity and inclusion.After, Adrian is joined by fellow host Criena Gehrke to discuss key ta...2021-09-091h 00The Three BellsS1:E7 Enabling impact through cultural research – Sunil Iyengar in conversation with Adrian EllisSummary: In this episode, our host Adrian Ellis speaks with Sunil Iyengar, Director of Research and Analysis at the National Endowment for the Arts in the US, about the increasing global demand for research, information and statistics to demonstrate the value of the arts. They also discuss the need for more longitudinal and qualitative research, especially community-based participatory studies. Thereafter, Adrian is joined by fellow host Criena Gehrke to discuss key takeaways. They concur on the importance of meaningful qualitative research, especially collaborative and cross-sectoral projects. DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPTReferences: Na...2021-08-1951 minThe Three BellsS1:E6 Embedding hope through creative placemaking – Jia-Ping Lee in conversation with Stephanie FortunatoSummary: In this episode, our host Stephanie Fortunato speaks with Jia-Ping Lee, an urban rejuvenator and place consultant based in Malaysia, about her inspirational journey as a placemaker who has been advocating and creating better places to live, work and play. They discuss the importance of deep listening, care, and hope as values that inform placemaking and placekeeping. Thereafter, Stephanie is joined by fellow host Adrian Ellis to discuss key takeaways. They further reflect on the significance of hope as well as factors affecting inclusive placemaking today, particularly the long tail of Covid-19. D...2021-08-0357 minThe Three BellsBonus: Sanjoy K. Roy in conversation with Adrian Ellis – the unabridged editIn this bonus track for Ep 5 of The Three Bells podcast, discover the unabridged edit of our host Adrian Ellis' conversation with Sanjoy K. Roy, Managing Director of Teamwork Arts.
Please note that the audio for this bonus has not been mixed to the same standards as our main episodes.2021-07-081h 09The Three BellsS1:E5 Opportunity, agility, and resilience – Sanjoy K. Roy in conversation with Adrian EllisSummary:In this episode, our host Adrian Ellis speaks with Sanjoy K. Roy, Managing Director of Teamwork Arts, about his relational journey and global experiences in the arts, which highlights the importance of producing cultural programmes that address current social needs, and are co-created with communities. Thereafter, Adrian is joined by fellow host Stephanie Fortunato to discuss key takeaways. They reflect on how Sanjoy’s dexterity during the Covid-19 pandemic reflects the agility and resilience of the arts. They also discuss the pros and cons of different organisational models for the arts, and the importance of...2021-07-0857 minThe Three BellsS1:E4 Towards transformational cultural leadership – Diane Ragsdale in Conversation with Stephanie FortunatoSummary:In this episode, our host Stephanie Fortunato speaks with Diane Ragsdale, Director and Co-Lead Faculty of the Cultural Leadership Program at Banff Centre for Arts & Creativity, about the need for transformational cultural leadership to ensure the resilience and relevance of the arts and cultural sectors, especially in navigating the Covid-19 pandemic. Thereafter, Stephanie is joined by fellow host Adrian Ellis to discuss key takeaways. They reflect on how the Covid-19 pandemic could be a window of opportunity for new forms of cultural leadership to emerge, which will encourage artistic experimentation and maximize th...2021-06-1756 minThe Three BellsS1:E3 Making the case for artistic risk-taking – Victoria Broackes in conversation with Adrian EllisSummary:In this episode, our host Adrian Ellis speaks with Victoria Broackes, the current Director of the London Design Biennale. Drawing on her curatorial experiences, they speak candidly about the challenges facing cultural programming, particularly in relation to the opportunities presented by digital technology, and the untapped possibilities of experiential exhibition-making. Thereafter, Adrian is joined by fellow host Criena Gehrke to discuss key takeaways. They reflect upon the tensions facing artistic risk-taking as well as the need for cultural programming to tell meaningful and resonant stories. DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPTReferences: V&A E...2021-05-2751 minThe Three BellsS1:E2 What makes a great city? – Ben Rogers in conversation with Criena GehrkeSummary:In this episode, our host Criena Gehrke speaks with urbanist Ben Rogers about the differing factors influencing urban planning and policy today. In particular, they discuss how the pandemic and current political climate have affected cities, and highlighted the importance of long-term urban strategy as well the need to reclaim and democratise public spaces. Thereafter, Criena is joined by fellow host Stephanie Furtunato to discuss key takeaways. They reflect upon how this is an opportune moment to reimagine the possibilities for cities to become more community-centric. DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPTExternal re...2021-05-0649 minThe Three BellsS1:E1 Leading with empathy and kindness – Claire Spencer in conversation with Adrian EllisEp 1: Leading with empathy and kindness – Claire Spencer in conversation with Adrian EllisIn this inaugural episode of The Three Bells, recorded on March 10, 2021 – our host Adrian Ellis (Founder and Chair of the Global Cultural Districts Network), speaks with Claire Spencer, CEO of Arts Centre Melbourne. They cover a lot of ground: Claire's route to her current position, the remarkable project she conceived - The Arts Wellbeing Collective which she founded in 2016, but which is also perfectly designed for the present moment, the formidable precinct development currently in planning for which the Victoria government has comm...2021-04-131h 03The Three BellsS1:E0 (pilot): Introducing The Three Bells – Adrian Ellis in conversation with Stephanie FortunatoEp 0 (pilot): Introducing The Three Bells – Adrian Ellis in conversation with Stephanie FortunatoIn this bonus pilot episode of The Three Bells, our host Stephanie Fortunato (Director of the Department of Art, Culture + Tourism, City of Providence), speaks with Adrian Ellis, Founder and Chair of the Global Cultural Districts Network. They cover a lot of ground: Adrian's recent move to Italy, his take on the future of international travel and what it means for cities and cultural institutions which rely heavily on tourism, the origins of The Three Bells, the goal of the podcast for GC...2021-04-1347 min