Art Matters Now
Art Matters Now (AMN) is a curatorial initiative harnessing digital technology to connect artists and the public in meaningful discussions on social issues while also supporting artists and cultural organisations in creating digital content. Based in the North East of England and Edinburgh, AMN is led by a dedicated two-person team committed to fostering art participation and making culture more accessible.
'I love working with Christie and Rory. I find their approach considered, highly technically skilled and hugely creative.'
I love working with Christie and Rory. I find their approach considered, highly technically skilled and hugely creative. Working alongside Art Matters Now particularly allowed me to continue sharing and developing the socially engaged elements of my work during the pandemic when traditional methods for connecting with co-authors and communities of local people have been unavailable.
LADY KITT, ARTIST
360° Virtual Tours
Since 2020, Art Matters Now has produced over 80 interactive 360° virtual tours of exhibitions and immersive artworks, helping artists, higher education institutions, and cultural heritage venues creatively digitise their work to enhance engagement, accessibility, and education. The following are some work examples:
Digital Media
Art Matters Now is also experienced in creating bespoke digital content and publication, including e-books, videos, and other multimedia resources. We work closely with artists, educators, charities, and cultural organisations to develop engaging digital experiences that enhance learning, outreach, and public engagement. Below are some of our recent projects:
- Multaka North East Digital Exhibition
- The Kinship Care Notebook (e-book)
- Hills Are Alive (video)
- Learning from the Ancient Romans (video series)
- SunSpaceArt STEAM Workshops (video series)
Exhibitions
Art Matters Now curates exhibitions that explore and encourage dialogue on social issues. These include Our Fragile Coexistence (2020) and Home Away From Home (2022), both supported by funding from Arts Council England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, through Sunderland Culture’s Creative Development Fellowship.
'Very easy, efficient and professional to work with.'
Art Matters Now supported our organisation to digitise our exhibitions throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, which has helped us reach new audiences and continue to produce opportunities for artists. I would happily support and work with Art Matters Now on future projects. They are very easy, efficient and professional to work with.
VINCENT TODD, DIRECTOR OF NORFOLK STREET ARTS
Who We Are
RORY WILLIAMS,
Curator & Project Director
Rory Williams is a North East England-based painter, curator and art instructor with interdisciplinary interests in figurative painting, digital media and community art engagement. His artistic and curatorial practices often merge, blurring the lines between facilitator and creator, creating community collaborative painting projects that explore contemporary themes.
CHRISTIE CHAN,
Producer & Content Director
Christie Chan is an artist, writer, and digital cultural heritage researcher undertaking a SGSAH/AHRC-funded PhD at the University of Edinburgh. She co-directs Art Matters Now projects, taking lead in project publicity and content creation.