I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as a young reviewer for Cockayne: Grants for the Arts. This role allowed me to experience an incredible range of events across music, art, poetry, and theatre, many of which I might not have considered attending on my own. While not every event was to my taste, the experience significantly broadened my horizons, and I discovered many things that I truly enjoyed developing a greater appreciation for the diverse forms of artistic expression. Some events left a lasting impact, introducing me to new genres and styles I had previously overlooked. This exposure to a broad spectrum of cultural experiences was invaluable, helping me cultivate a more nuanced understanding of the arts.

Through this opportunity, I got to travel all over London, visiting parts of the city I might never have explored otherwise. Initially, I was apprehensive about traveling and attending events alone, but this experience taught me how to navigate the city independently and embrace new situations with confidence. Additionally, the task of expressing my personal opinions in my reviews, especially when they were critical, helped me develop my voice as a writer and critic. I learned to articulate my thoughts clearly and constructively, providing balanced and insightful feedback. I will say that balancing this with a full-time job was sometimes a bit overwhelming and stressful, but otherwise, it was an entirely positive experience.

Overall, being a reviewer for Cockayne: Grants for the Arts has been an enriching and transformative experience. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, allowing me to grow both personally and professionally. The skills and insights I gained during this time will stay with me, influencing how I engage with the arts for years to come. I am grateful for the opportunity and would highly recommend it to anyone with a passion for the arts and a desire to broaden their cultural horizons.

Eleanor O’Donovan, September 2024