Last month we had a new Creative Apprentice start work at the Ventnor Exchange, working with ourselves and Quay Arts. He’s currently busy working on the Ventnor Fringe but we took some time out to have a quick chat and introduce you to Jack Barnes.
A recent graduate of Platform One Music College, Jack will be training as an Events Assistant with our two organisations.
It’s your first week as an apprentice at Ventnor Exchange, how’s it been so far?
It’s been super exciting, I’ve never worked in such a relaxing environment before its absolutely wonderful.
What should we know about you?
I’m 100% the most punk person ever employed through the Isle of Wight Council, there’s nothing I enjoy more than having a beer and making some sweet music with my mates.
What are you most looking forward to from the experience?
I’m really looking forward to meeting and networking with all the interesting people who take part in the Fringe Festival. It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.
Any surprises so far?
When you start a new job everyone wants to make you a cup of tea
Your also working with Quay Arts in this role, how important do you think it is for the Island’s creative organisations to work together?
Personally, I think the team work of arts organisations is super important, especially for people who are growing up on the island. Young people need all the opportunities they can get to be creative and the islands arts organisations are doing a great job!
Any tips on what new music we should be listening to?
Idles are one of the best British punk bands around at the moment, they’re deffo worth checking out. Slowthai is really sick too, he’s a rapper from Northampton and is such a friendly and cool guy.
The Creative Apprentice position has been made possible as part of the Lift The Lid project and with the support of the IW AONB and is part of our drive to provide more opportunities for those looking to develop careers in the creative industries on the Isle of Wight.
