Having joined OSE in 2021, Polly is responsible for the organisation’s artistic vision, devising curricula across our learning programmes, delivery of the Associates programme, and curatorial projects which range from the popular free public programme to yearly commissions. Alongside her work at OSE, Polly is currently training to become a qualified Forest School Leader.
(Image credit: Roy Mehta)

Natalie has over 25 years experience working within community development and charitable sector, working with community partners to devise and deliver programmes that deliver sustainable outcomes. Natalie has expertise in income generation work and working in partnership with both the public and private sector.  Since 2018 Natalie has been working at the independent Performance Company 19-27 in Margate and has previously worked at Social Enterprise Kent, Thanet District Council and The Princes Trust in London.

Elissa oversees the development and running of the Young Associates Programme to strengthen its place in the community. By focusing on high quality, inclusive art education, the course supports and develops real life opportunities for the Young Associates. Elissa is a fine art photographer and lecturer with a background in building and managing educational courses at Further Education colleges. Working on photography commissions has enriched her love of travel and adventure. Closer to home, she is continuing to work on a series of portraits for Margate Pride.

Louis’ days at OSE usually include editing and publishing content for digital and physical distribution, and ensuring that all information is accessible for a wide audience base, including both our learners and the general public. Louis is also in charge of documenting OSE’s events and liaising with tutors and guests to coordinate workshops and events. Louis first joined OSE in 2018 on a work placement as part of the Weston Jerwood Creative Bursaries programme.

Outside of OSE, Louis composes and produces music and sound works for solo projects, films, and podcasts. He is passionate about Autism Advocacy, regularly writing about the topic on his Instagram, and is currently undertaking Autistic mentoring training with NDSA.

Carla teaches on the design module of the Young Associates Programme. She helps the Young Associates develop their cultural and societal awareness by forging connections between the community and helping them gain local creative opportunities. She has taken part in Creative Climate Leadership training with Julie’s Bicycle and has training in education, mental health, and wellbeing support. Carla has worked as senior designer for Vivienne Westwood VWMAN, is a published member of Margate Queer Writers and has worked with charitable organisations to support young people within the Queer community via BeYou and young people suffering with anxiety via Porchlight.

Mark teaches and supports on the Young Associates Programme, helping to deliver the Creative Careers module, which is designed to enable the young people to find confidence in their abilities and help them move forward on their chosen paths. The module has a strong focus on developing communication and literacy skills as well as instilling a greater understanding and awareness of planning and budgeting for a creative life. Mark is a practicing artist working with painting, sculpture, print and photography. When not teaching at OSE, he can be found working from his studio in Broadstairs.