XYZ BRENTFORD

Site Manager
Michael Speechley is a London-based artist whose practice explores the relationship between sound, image, and sensory perception through analogue and digital moving image, lens-based work, sound, and sculpture. Drawing on his experience lecturing in real-time video for live performance and experimental art, he supports emerging creatives in developing technical skills, interdisciplinary methods, and confident media experimentation. His community engagement work across West and North West London centres on artist support and cultural development, helping under-utilised buildings realise their potential in sustainable, inclusive, and creatively driven ways.

Curator & Muse Trustee
Małgorzata (Gosia) Łapsa-Malawska is a Polish-born curator and artist based in London, with extensive international experience across South America and Asia. She has a keen eye for identifying emerging talent and guiding artists to develop their practice and exhibitions. Her expertise in conceptual curation, spatial storytelling, and audience engagement allows her to mentor artists in presenting work with clarity and impact. Gosia combines artistic sensitivity with strategic insight, helping creatives refine their vision while navigating the practicalities of the art world.

Artist & Muse Associate
Eleni Maragaki is an Athens-born visual artist and member of the Royal Society of Sculptors, with training from the Athens School of Fine Arts and Central Saint Martins. Her international exhibition experience and award-winning practice—including projects with the Stavros Niarchos Foundation and recognitions from Tate and the Muse Gallery—reflect her strong grasp of public art, material experimentation, and spatial thinking. She supports emerging artists by sharing expertise in concept development, installation planning, and navigating opportunities across residencies, commissions, and contemporary art networks.

Director, Portobello People TV
David Barnard is an independent filmmaker whose career includes collaborations with leading international artists, producers, and technical teams. As Director of Portobello People’s TV (PPTV)—the free online channel connected to the Portobello Film Festival—he supports emerging filmmakers through thoughtful curation, creative guidance, and deep knowledge of community-driven cinema. Drawing on the festival’s extensive archive, he helps shape programming that elevates independent voices, celebrates local culture, and strengthens grassroots storytelling across Portobello Road and Notting Hill.

Artist
Sickboy is a Bristol-based street artist who began painting in 1995 after traditional fine art training, becoming a leading figure in the British street art movement. Known for pioneering the use of a pictorial logo as his tag, he brings strong visual branding instincts, conceptual clarity, and large-scale urban installation experience to his mentoring practice. His acclaimed work—from temples and slogan pieces to bold public interventions such as the 2008 caged-heart installation outside Tate Modern—reflects his expertise in graphic composition, audience engagement, and creative risk-taking. Sickboy supports emerging artists in developing distinct visual identities, navigating public art contexts, and expanding their creative range.

Film Programmer & Projectionist
Raymond Myndiuk is a Film Programmer and Projectionist at the Portobello Film Festival, with over two decades of experience curating international and British cinema. He guides emerging filmmakers in developing compelling narratives and crafting engaging programmes, combining a deep understanding of film with practical expertise in projection and festival operations. Raymond’s insight into programming, audience engagement, and the creative process makes him a valuable mentor for filmmakers seeking both artistic guidance and industry know-how

Director, Planet Loving Company
Alex Adamson, Co-Founder of The Vampire’s Wife, and sustainable fashion advocate Tabby Taylor established Planet Loving Company with a shared mission to create clothing that feels good, looks effortless, and leaves no harmful impact. Combining cross-generational insight with expertise in ethical production, brand development, and conscious consumer engagement, PLC champions a model of fashion rooted in mindfulness and accessibility. Their focus on versatility, comfort, and sustainable design allows them to mentor emerging creatives and conscious brands in building values-driven practices that support both people and the planet.

Founder, Portobello Film Festival
Jonathan Barnett is the founder of the Portobello Film Festival, one of London’s most influential free-to-enter and free-to-attend film festivals, known for championing independent, underground, and countercultural filmmaking since 1996. His leadership has helped shape a platform that nurtures emerging talent, celebrates experimental and community-driven cinema, and showcases hundreds of films each year across West London. With decades of experience in festival curation, creative development, and grassroots cultural programming, Jonathan supports filmmakers in navigating the industry while retaining artistic independence and authentic storytelling.

Founders, Aja Botanicals
Joshua and Tilly Young are the founders of Aja Botanicals, a British fragrance company specialising in natural, fine fragrances designed to connect people with the restorative power of the natural world. Drawing on Tilly’s background in the British countryside, her advocacy for holistic wellbeing, and her training in perfumery, the pair work closely with leading UK scent-makers to craft fragrances that support energy, mindset, and sensory balance. Their combined expertise in product development, natural formulation, and values-driven brand building enables them to mentor emerging creators seeking sustainable, wellness-focused approaches within the beauty and fragrance industries.