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Jessica Alice
Director at Writers SA
Professional Background
Jessica Alice is a celebrated writer, broadcaster, and arts leader, currently making significant contributions to the cultural landscape of South Australia while residing on Kaurna Yerta, Adelaide. As the Director of Writers SA, Jessica is at the forefront of promoting and supporting literature in the region, positioning her organization as the peak body dedicated to the literary arts in South Australia. Her extensive leadership experience includes pivotal roles with well-acclaimed artistic organizations such as the Melbourne Writers Festival and the National Young Writers Festival, enabling her to champion various artistic initiatives effectively.
In addition to her role at Writers SA, Jessica has served as the Chair of the Arts Industry Council of South Australia. This representative body works to advocate for the interests and needs of artists and arts organizations across the state. Her commitment to fostering a vibrant arts community is reflected through her various board memberships, including her influential work with Melbourne International Arts Festival, which has now rebranded as RISING, and her engagement with SYN Media, a youth radio platform.
Jessica's interdisciplinary background bridges the realms of festivals, community broadcasting, literature, and performing arts. She is a strong advocate for ambitious arts visions that not only resonate within communities but also enhance civic engagement. Her leadership philosophy revolves around building connections and creating platforms for diverse voices and perspectives within the arts.
Education and Achievements
Jessica's impressive educational background laid the foundation for her successful career in the arts. She holds a Bachelor of Arts with a focus on Creative Writing, as well as a Bachelor of Media and Communication (Honours) with First Class Honours, both from RMIT University. Additionally, she has completed a Diploma of Professional Writing and Editing at Box Hill Institute, further reinforcing her writing credentials.
In a testament to her leadership capabilities, Jessica was selected as one of just 20 arts leaders from Australia and Asia for the Australia Council for the Arts’ prestigious Future Leaders Program in 2018. This recognition highlights her potential and promise in shaping the future of the arts industry both regionally and beyond.
Currently, she is pursuing a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Cultural Leadership at the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA), deepening her expertise in the arts sector. Throughout her studies, she has excelled in crafting innovative approaches to arts management and engagement, aimed at impact-driven community initiatives.
Published Work and Contributions
Jessica's impact as a writer extends far beyond her leadership roles. She is an accomplished author of poetry, essays, and critical writings that explore complex themes in literature and the arts. Her published works can be found in well-respected outlets such as The Guardian Australia, Metro Magazine, Overland, Australian Poetry Journal, and Cordite Poetry Review. Additionally, she contributes insightful art essays to various galleries and spaces, including BLINDSIDE gallery, Mailbox Art Space, MOD., and ACE Open.
Through her writing, Jessica engages with contemporary issues in the arts, offering fresh perspectives that resonate with both fellow artists and the broader community. Her ability to articulate her thoughts on literature and culture has garnered her a loyal following and contributed to vital discussions in the creative sphere.
Commitment to the Community
Jessica's dedication to the arts is not just confined to her professional roles; she actively engages in community initiatives that promote inclusivity and foster creative expression. Her previous experience as a Radio Producer and Presenter at community radio stations such as 3CR and 3RRR FM allows her to connect with audiences and bring attention to the work of emerging and diverse artists. Furthermore, her tenure as a Poetry Editor for Voiceworks provided her with a platform to support young writers and cultivate new talent.
Jessica has also served as a Senior Consultant in digital strategy at Scorch, where she empowered arts organizations to enhance their online presence and engage effectively with digital audiences. Whether through her program management at events like the Melbourne Writers Festival or her initiatives within Writers SA, Jessica constantly strives to create opportunities for artists to thrive in various formats.
In every role she has undertaken, from marketing and public relations at Regional Arts Victoria to co-directing at the National Young Writers Festival, Jessica has consistently emphasized the importance of collaboration, innovation, and community-oriented visions in the arts sector.
Conclusion
Jessica Alice's multifaceted career and dedication to the arts serve as an inspiring example of leadership in the creative industry. Her extensive experience across different roles, combined with her commitment to fostering community engagement through arts, positions her as a formidable force in Australian literature and arts leadership. As she continues to build her expertise and influence in the field, Jessica remains a vital advocate for the importance of diverse voices in shaping the future of arts and culture in South Australia and beyond.
