Being the Founder of Creative Debuts is a rollercoaster of a ride. To wake up to being on the Forbes 30 under 30 list is truly wild and hugely appreciated.
“The art world is an elitist place and I experienced this first-hand when growing up in rural Northumberland, Northern England. Coming from a working-class, single-parent household I was often told: “There’s no money in art” and “to get a real job”. Creative Debuts was born to be a symbol of hope for emerging artists from all over the world, a community-focused platform with the sole mission of democratising the art world.
I have always been aware of my privilege within the art world, being a straight white male in a straight white male-dominated industry, it has always been integral to me to collaborate and champion those who do not have a seat at the table and provide as many opportunities as possible for creatives from marginalised communities. Whether it’s through brand collaborations, independent activations or community focussed no-strings-attached grants, Creative Debuts has always been the vehicle and the megaphone for the creative community it proudly represents.”
Thank you to everyone who has supported me on this journey so far. There is so much more to come, I’m just getting started 🚀
Biggest shout-out goes to my Mum ❤️
Photo by the greatest @oliviarosegarden
#forbes30under30
Today marks 24 years since the imprisonment of Marwan Barghouti, Palestines most prominent political figure who was unjustly convicted in a trial he did not recognise in 2022.
Marwan remains a unifying figure in Palestinian politics and a unifying voice for peace and democracy.
“What is happening to Barghouti is exactly the same as what happened to me.” - Nelson Mandela
FREE MARWAN
FREE PALESTINE
@freemarwannow@freemarwannow@freemarwannow
FACE 2 FACE was all it was billed up to be and so much more.
People connecting in real life, surrounded by incredible art and coming together for a collective love of creativity and culture.
People from all backgrounds being in a shared space, conversations with strangers who became friends. Art truly being a vehicle for bringing people together and showing there is far more that unifies us than divides us.
Massive thank you to everyone who came to support; all the artists, live artists, workshop hosts and the people behind the scenes who made it all possible.
For all photos. Please head to @studio404.world and check out the link in the bio.
Mark your calendars for June 4th as we doing it all over again. Open call coming soon!
X
Curated by @calum03
🎥 @studiobonusoficial
✨ JUDGE #2 REVEAL ✨
Welcoming Calum Hall to the Moniker Art Residency 2026 judging panel (Mexico 🇲🇽).
ARTISTS, applications are live - is yours in yet?
Calum Hall is widely recognised for his contributions to the arts and culture sector. As the founder of @creativedebuts Calum has established himself as a visionary leader in fostering creativity and cultural exchange.
⚡️His background in events and nightlife provided a keen understanding of the intersection between brand, cultural engagement and live experiences – insights that he has applied to his entrepreneurial ventures within the arts.
Calum’s dedication and impact in the creative space were recognised globally when he was named an honouree of 💥 Forbes 30 Under 30 💥 in the Arts & Culture category. This prestigious recognition references his leadership in reshaping the landscape of contemporary art and culture, as well as his ability to blend innovation, community-building, and brand partnerships. 🤝👌
🇲🇽ℹ️🎨 ABOUT THE RESIDENCY:
In May 2026 - and in collaboration with@tulumartclub & @ladle.mx - we’re bringing the Moniker Foundation’s visionary platform to Mexico for an unforgettable, all-expenses-paid 10-day residency set in one of the world’s most vibrant cultural landscapes.
Want in? ARTISTS! APPLY NOW! 🚀
🛼The deadline for applications is February 20th, so get your skates on!
#artistresidency #callingallartists #applynow #creativedebuts #artmexico
