Conditions for Curiosity & Comfort

A seminar exploring how we can make cultural spaces in the UK more welcoming to everyone.

What are the Conditions for Comfort and Curiosity in Cultural Spaces?

A seminar of talks and discussions led by Jen McDerra: a timely event as we open a new venue exploring how we can make cultural spaces in the UK more welcoming to people with low socio-cultural confidence

Jen is developing the ‘QUEST’ initiative to connect people experiencing low socio-cultural confidence with civic spaces and their community through libraries. Seeking to understand and create the conditions for comfort and curiosity to thrive in more of our cultural spaces.

The guiding principle for her work is the drive to acknowledge and support contributions to society by people whose voices and wishes have been neglected.

Previously Jen led the Charles Causley Trust in Launceston which exists to further the legacy of the poet through opportunities for those engaged with Cornish heritage and the community. Prior to this Jen held roles within the literature sector, including Culture Programme Officer for Commonwealth Writers, Development Manager for The Reader, and Community Relations Officer at Barefoot Books.

Jen is currently writing up her Leverhulme Trust funded doctoral research reuniting C20th women in books and broadcasting with their achievements.

You’ll find her at the intersection of stories, belonging, and self-discovery, or in Bath where she actually lives.