Jess Franklin is a communications and public engagement professional, cross-disciplinary facilitator and visual artist. She is the founder of The Fold, a group that brings artists and geoscientists together through exploration, dialogue, and embodied engagement with the natural world. The initiative draws on her background in geology and her commitment to artist-centred collaboration. In her role as Senior Engagement Officer at University College Cork, she has led national arts and cultural programmes that connect artists, schools, and communities through exhibitions, workshops, and public events. Her creative practice centres on collage and interdisciplinary projects, including SOURCE, an immersive sound installation co-created with Kevin Sanderson that combines geological storytelling with experimental sound. Her work is grounded in clear, mindful communication, an artist-first ethos, and a commitment to fostering environments where creativity, openness, and shared learning can thrive.
We are delighted to welcome Jess Franklin as our new Communications & Development Support Manager. The role is a combined role which will focus on two key aspects of the organisation’s work. Jess will oversee marketing and communications both internally and externally. Jess will also oversee and manage the Backwater Artists Network and the organisation’s Development Support Programme. Jess will start in January 2026.
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