Alma Solarte-Tobon

Community Arts, Poetry, Socially engaged

Experienced Creative Producer, Creative Director and facilitator with a demonstrated history of working in community arts and more recently in interdisciplinary research. I have led numerous inclusive projects across the UK and Europe, including artist mentoring programmes, large-scale public art commissions and Erasmus+ funded international exchanges. With over 20 years’ experience in community arts, I aim to create spaces where people can connect, reflect, and share their own stories through creative expression.

My practice spans visual arts, public installations, and applied storytelling, often shaped in collaboration with local communities. My work is rooted in making shared platforms for reflection, connection, and celebration, trying to bring art into everyday life.

As a Doctoral Researcher with the Storytelling Academy at Loughborough University, my current research explores storytelling, belonging, and wellbeing in diasporic communities.

As Creative Director for Nottingham Poetry Festival I work with the team to deliver the festival specific focus on driving the festival forward artistically and strategically.

The arts offer more learning and involvement opportunities now than ever. Nevertheless, finding them requires being proactive, which can seem intimidating. Organisations such as City Arts and Nottingham Poetry Festival, use social media and websites to share opportunities for involvement. In addition, individuals in these creative industries are willing to provide one-on-one support and mentorship when appropriate.

Talk to me about: Careers in the arts, including Creative Producer or any industry based jobs specifically around community arts and social engaged practice.

Happy to be involved as a Speaker or panel member at Connecting Notts events.