'Wizard with a camera' joins 'wonderful' team at Grimm
A “STORYTELLER across all forms” has joined the “wonderful” team at a Rotherham literacy charity.
Described by Grimm and Co founder Deborah Bullivant as a “wizard with a camera”, Joel Arthur (26) is the organisation's new communication and marketing officer.
Joel, who has previously worked as a social media manager and for a Sheffield-based app, said: “My whole background is storytelling across all forms – creative writing, social media, photography, video editing, physical and digital media – I'm a Jack of all trades when it comes to storytelling.”
Joel, who came to Sheffield as a university student and ended up staying in South Yorkshire after graduation, joins the team at Grimm and Co's Ship Hill headquarters in the town centre which includes the Emporium of Stories, as well as the Feastery (cafe) and Apothecary (shop).
The converted former Methodist church on Talbot Lane is also the base for school trips, writing workshops and storytelling and creative sessions for children from across South Yorkshire.
“I'm a story creator,” said Joel who is also a musician and plays in local band Broken Narrative.
“That's my favourite thing, inspiring people.
“So to have a role like this in the Emporium of Stories is a perfect fit.
“I'm really looking forward to being involved in this year's Festival of Stories which kicks off on May 19 all the way through to May 30 here at Grimm.
“To be in a magical space like this where we inspire that whimsy and enable imaginations to be fired up – this place is awe-inspiring.”
Founding chief executive officer Deborah Bullivant said: “A Grimm and Co priority for this year is to make sure the majority of people across South Yorkshire know who we are and what we do so they come along to our Emporium of Stories to have a magical experience with us.
“Joel is a wizard with a camera and social media so we're very much looking forward to everyone being able to see the wonderfulness of our work in all its glory.”