Louis MacNeice Society is a non-profit organisation that was founded in July 2023 which brings authors, scholars, writers and fans of MacNeice together. Our goal is to develop a community that values reading, creativity, and critical thinking. We think that literature has the power to take us to new places, alter our viewpoints, and motivate us to better understand ourselves and the world around us. As a society, we plan frequent gatherings, seminars, and activities that allow our members the chance to read publications, present their own writing, and get criticism from their peers. In order to provide our members with insights and experiences from the literary world, we frequently extend invitations to guest lecturers.
At the heart of our literary society lies a profound mission: to resuscitate the forgotten legacy of Louis MacNeice, a poet whose poignant verses once resonated deeply, but have somewhat faded from public consciousness. We gather like-minded individuals who believe that the intricacy of his words deserve to be reintroduced to a new generation. By organising readings, workshops, and discussions, we aim to ignite a fresh appreciation for his poetic artistry, exploring themes of displacement, longing, and the search for meaning in a rapidly evolving world. Our society serves as a platform for not only MacNeice's resurgence, but also for countless other marginalised and underappreciated voices.
Andie Kristina - Founder, Managing Director, CEO
Andie Kristina first discovered Louis MacNeice's poetry during her college years and subsequently decided that she would write her dissertation on him. She received an offer in 2019 to study a BA in English Literature and French at Loughborough University where she collaborated with lecturer, Professor Clare Hutton who is also a Joycean scholar, writer and expert in the Irish literary field. Andie's dissertation was deemed to be one of the strongest in her year and then received an unconditional offer to study for a MA in English Literatures at Keele University, where she earned her second degree. It was then that she worked on her dissertation with the Founder of May Sinclair Society, Doctor Rebecca Bowler. Andie's MA dissertation discussed processes of unconscious influence between Louis MacNeice and Ezra Pound and earned a distinction. In May 2023, Andie was awarded a scholarship to study a PhD at Loughborough University and is currently working alongside Doctor Wim Van Mierlo, the president of the European Society for Textual Scholarship and Doctor Oliver Tearle, the creator of the online library Interesting Literature. Andie's thesis 'Identity as Art: Unveiling Louis MacNeice’s Various and Conflicting Selves' examines how MacNeice's poetry represents his 'collection of selves', which change based on his environment, societal status, and life experiences. Andie has also produced an online facsimile of Ernest Dowson’s love poetry and is currently working on a poetry collection that she hopes will interest Faber & Faber. Andie’s other notable works can be found via her LinkedIn profile here.
Jessica Cerys Pardoe - Creative Director
Jessica Cerys Pardoe graduated with first class honours in Illustration from Manchester Metropolitan University in 2023 and Fine Art from the University of the Arts London in 2020. The work she produces utilises a distinctive combination of classic illustrative capability and modern technology. She specialises in crafting illustrations that employ mixed media to create captivating final images, all while conducting extensive research on each topic she investigates. Research is the most important component of her creative practice, and it pervades all of her creative endeavours. Her visual storytelling concentrates on British mythology, history, and culture, and her goal is to make aesthetically descriptive imagery which is striking, appealing and accessible to a wide audience. Because her illustrated work is typically visually descriptive, her narrative illustrations are engaging to a broad audience. By mixing traditional illustration techniques (printmaking, drawing) with digital (Adobe Suite, Procreate), she has gained a significant number of illustrative abilities which she enjoys merging in the form of mixed media across various stand-alone illustrations and projects. However, her illustrative style is constantly altering, depending on the subject matter. Being a mixed media illustrator she can express her personality as an illustrator and creator on the one hand, and a complete epistemophile on the other. She also has her own portfolio which is titled JP Design.
Fionnbharr Rodgers - Senior Research Executive
Fionnbharr Rodgers has written articles for History Ireland, Northern Slant, Slugger O’Toole, and The Irish Times; he has had poems published in A New Ulster, Blackbird, and Blackbox Manifold. 2015 saw Fionnbharr graduate from Queen's University Belfast with a BA in History and Politics and an MA in Politics. He completed his MA dissertation in the manner of Louis MacNeice's Autumn Journal, which he called 'Spin Cycle,' as a result of his fixation with MacNeice's unmodified documentation-style poetry. In his literary imagination, MacNeice holds a place amidst the trinity that also includes Michael Collins and Oscar Wilde: Irishmen who lived remarkable, but short lives, of outstanding ability, intensely interested in ideas, passionate in their own peculiar ways, and beautiful models for artistic living that are still perfectly resonant today.
Edward Smith - Journalist
Edward Smith started at Louis MacNeice Society after gaining a degree in Journalism at Birmingham City University. Specialising in feature writing, audio journalism and in-depth subject coverage, he has worked as a freelance writer on local and national topics. Interested in factual representation and clear media communication, Edward has focused both academically and practically on taking the views and analyses of experts and personnel on the ground and getting their points across to general audiences. Poetry and any form of artistic narrative has long been an interest of Edward’s. Joining the society as a writer and contributor looking to expand his experiences, he hopes to continue his career in media in a way that can engage and interact with people in new and accessible ways.
Blessing Dagin - Journalist
Blessing Dagin is a creative with a background in Mass Communication and Journalism from Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria. She began her journey with Louise MacNeice Society at an early stage when she was banking on her love for poetry to carve a career path. With a zest for creative writing and storytelling, Blessing is constantly building on the art of poetry, as a medium through which she shares the depth of beauty in humanity and the culture of African people. While putting in efforts to build a presence in the digital space, she has expressed her love for poetry through writing and publishing spoken word poems on different social networks. As a part of the society, actively contributing alongside analysing poetry, Blessing hopes to further her skills in creative writing, reaching more people with the art of storytelling.
Yusuf Uluçam - Journalist
Yusuf Uluçam, a Turkish national, holds a degree in Political Science and International Relations. He is an accomplished podcaster, blending his multidisciplinary background with a deep passion for literature, particularly poetry. Currently pursuing a Master's in Political Science, he has also excelled in political consultancy for esteemed think tanks and foundations. In the future, he aspires to expand his career, maintaining a focus on the dynamic intersection of politics, literature, and society through podcasts and other creative networks.
Elizabeth Reece - Journalist
Elizabeth Reece began writing for Louis MacNeice Society following the completion of her BA in History at the University of Exeter. Most of her historical writing focused on social issues, with her dissertation discussing the cultural significance and controversy surrounding FGM practices in Colonial Kenya. As an avid reader, she is keen to develop her literary knowledge, exploring the themes of loneliness and the human condition within poetry. She hopes to use this experience to further substantiate her blog writing and interviewing experience, with the intention to use this knowledge and expertise to break into the copy writing and media industry. One of her recent additional ventures includes the creation of her own blog, exploring personal issues with a focus on mental health and the young adult experience. Elizabeth documents her thoughts via this website: https://www.itdoesgtbetter.com/blog.
Tia-Louise Barlow - Journalist
In addition to working in retail, Tia-Louise Barlow is a freelance journalist and has a BA in Multimedia Journalism. Tia-Louise has had a special interest in history, war, and crime reporting from a young age. However, after writing, producing, and hosting her own radio shows for Bollington's Canalside Radio, she has since grown in experience. She subsequently went on to work at the University of Salford's student-led radio station, Shock Radio, where she wrote, researched, and produced Top 10s, Mental health shows, and programming about the misdiagnosed ailment, Endometriosis, beginning in 2019. In the past, she has also collaborated with Shock Xtra, Things3D, Pie Radio, Salford City Radio, Redwall Radio, SalfordNow, and ProtectED. Tia-Louise is a supporter of Black and Asian history, endometriosis awareness, and autism awareness. Through sharing the experiences of people of colour, she hopes to raise awareness and persuade society to be more inclusive of individuals from many backgrounds and cultures. She aims to work as a war/foreign correspondent by using her degree and her understanding of war reporting.
Amanda Ellison - Journalist
Amanda Ellison is a dedicated teacher and versatile writer, with a passion for literature, history, and journalism. Over two decades ago, she embarked on her teaching journey after completing her PGCE at Newcastle University. With her degree in English and History, she has been shaping young minds and fostering a love of literature and the past ever since. More recently, Amanda’s writing career has flourished. She honed her journalism skills by earning a diploma in the field, which allowed her to seamlessly blend her teaching and writing roles. Her creative pursuits have led her down diverse paths, including regular feature writing for a prominent musical theatre website and professional book reviewing. She has cultivated a considerable portfolio over the years. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Amanda is relentlessly creative: she self-published an educational children’s book and is currently immersed in drafting her first poetry pamphlet. Her work with Louis MacNeice Society not only keeps her research and analytical skills on the right side of sharp, but also exemplifies her commitment to safeguarding literary culture.
Alexander Tatiev - Journalist
Alexander Tatiev is a passionate journalist with a MA in Global Media and Communication from the University of Warwick. His primary focus revolves around investigative journalism, particularly in the realms of war, corruption, and state crimes. While his dedication to arts and literature is evident from his background in literary editing and arts management, Alexander is first and foremost driven by his commitment to journalism and its power to uncover the truth, highlight injustices, shed light on critical issues and drive change. The opportunity to combine his journalistic ambitions with his interests in literature and the arts is particularly exciting. Alexander’s contribution to Louis MacNeice Society is personally rewarding as it enables him to fuse his passions and craft compelling stories that resonate with a diverse audience. His enthusiasm for this endeavour aligns perfectly with the society's values, making him a valuable member of the team.
Shafaq Shahid - Journalist
Shafaq Shahid, a recent graduate from Cardiff University, has successfully completed her studies in Journalism, Media and English Literature. With a strong passion for writing and storytelling, Shafaq now aspires to pursue a career as a journalist and writer. Throughout her time at university, she honed her skills in both areas, developing a deep understanding of journalistic principles and techniques, as well as exploring the richness of literature. Shafaq's academic background has equipped her with the necessary knowledge and critical thinking abilities to effectively communicate ideas and engage readers. Her dedication to her studies and her desire to make a positive impact through her writing has laid a solid foundation for her future career. As Shafaq embarks on this new chapter, she is eager to contribute her unique perspective and creative voice to the field of journalism, bringing important stories to light and inspiring readers with her words.
Georgia Yianni - Journalist
As an impassioned writer and devoted reader, Georgia Yianni is currently pursuing a dual degree in Comparative Literature and Ancient Greek at University College London. Driven by aspirations to immerse herself in the realm of writing, she holds an interest in journalistic storytelling and envisions seamlessly incorporating her journalistic pursuits with the publication of her poetry. With Louis MacNeice Society, Georgia feels deeply privileged to contribute her creative energy through crafting content. Her journey is not only marked by academic achievements, but also by a profound appreciation for poetry, which she sees as a creative outlet for personal catharsis. Among her cherished literary influences stand luminaries such as Sylvia Plath, Constantine Cavafy, and Dante Alighieri, whose works continually inspire Georgia's creative endeavors.
Deborah Cox-Walker - Writer
Deborah Cox-Walker was born in New York but educated in England where she developed a love of English literature. She graduated from Durham University with a first class honours in the subject and went on to have poetry and essays published before completing her Masters in Film Aesthetics at Oxford University. She then founded Little Ox Press which publishes books written and/or illustrated by children. She is currently working on a second novel and continues to write poetry. She is excited about taking a close look at the poetry of Louis MacNeice. Her personal website is DeborahCox.co.uk.
Deandra D'Cunha - Illustrator
Deandra D’Cunha is currently a Children’s Book Illustration and Graphic Novels MA student at Middlesex University, London. She found her love for creating visual interpretations of literary texts after coming across William Blake’s ‘Songs of Innocence and Experience’ whilst studying a BA in English Literature at Sophia College, Mumbai. Growing up being enthusiastic about drawing and creativity led her to take up Illustration as a career. She also works as a freelance Illustrator and has illustrated a rhyme book for children, titled ‘Rhyme Time’. The marriage of literary texts and visual narratives is what continues to create a spark of creativity within Deandra. She is positive that joining Louis MacNeice Society will support her in expanding her creative practice, help her make connections with writers and captivate audiences with her creativity.
Aldona Betcher - Illustrator
Aldona Betcher is a young creative currently based in the United Kingdom with a background in illustration and graphic design. She worked as a freelancer during and after graduating from Newcastle College University Centre with a bachelor’s degree in illustration, with a main focus on books and literature, creating illustrations and storyboards. Her passion for literature and reading led her to finding Louis MacNeice Society, a great opportunity to expand her skills and gain new experiences while working on projects she is immensely passionate about, as literature in its many forms was always a big influence on her growing up and had a huge impact on her choosing to specialise in storytelling and book illustrations. She is hoping to bring her work to newer audiences and progress further in her career in the creative industries.
Ava Moradi - Illustrator
Ava Moradi is currently studying for a BA (Hons) in Fine Arts at Goldsmiths University and is a designer and artist. As well as sculpture, painting and film, she also enjoys print design and poetry. She is currently writing her dissertation on the effects of exile on Iranian female artists and has been part of an exhibition, ‘Rise of the Symorgh,’ in Cardiff in 2022 supporting the recent protests in Iran. Ava started writing poetry two years ago due to a major life event but has always found solace in poetry. As well as a love for Iranian poetry, she discovered the work of Louis MacNeice and is excited to begin her association with the society. Ava is looking forward to using her artistic experience and to gain experience in media through meeting and interacting with new people and new forms of expression.
Madalena Teague - Illustrator
Madalena Teague is currently gaining her Bachelor's Degree in Art and Design Student at the University of Leeds. She is currently completing her second year of university and is hoping to complete her year in Industry in 2024. Her passion for a creative career has led her to Louis MacNeice Society in hopes of growing and learning as a creator and artist while expanding her creative skills and personal practice. The chance to be able to join her love for art and literature is especially exciting, while also being able to gain incredible professional experience. Over the next few years, she hopes to expand her practice into illustration and animation, while completing her degree and moving forward with her career in design.
Az Nicholas - Illustrator
Az Nicholas illustrates atmosphere and ghostly elegance through fashion and advertising concept artwork which is romantic yet unnerving. She combines moods from art deco, gothic Italian architecture and cemeteries, to horror and sinister psychological symbolism by combining both digital and traditional mediums. She would like to collaborate on projects combining words and lyrics, bringing together mediums through illustrative pieces and encouraging well-being through health and beauty illustrations.
Cyrus Ho - Illustrator
Born and raised in Hong Kong, Cyrus Ho is a creative worker now based in Manchester. Cyrus earned a BA in Fine Art and Design from Lancaster University and an MA in Art Gallery and Museum Studies from The University of Manchester. His current practices are mostly pen drawings, from automatic drawings to comical illustrations and surreal doodles, diving into themes of memory, the subconscious, the imagination and everyday experiences. Hoping to develop his illustrative ambitions, he is exploring different avenues to expand his skill set, creatively expressing and collaborating in varying projects. His work can be found primarily on instagram.com/chaqpie/.
Harry Carley - Illustrator
Harry Carley is an artist and illustrator from Kent, England. Having attended the University of Creative Arts in Canterbury he achieved a degree in Illustration and Animation in 2021. He now works as an artist and freelance illustrator whilst also seeking to deepen his portfolio of personal work and better himself with each piece he produces. Having worked on multiple projects, the most recent being the debut novel by Julian Kitsz ‘In Lucem’ he has an engaging portfolio which expresses his passion for creating visual art. Though adept in multiple techniques, his practice revolves around drawing and print making moreover etching and producing unique monotypes. Commonly working with an achromatic palette he relies on experimental mark making and tonal variation to generate form and depth within his work. Many of his personal pieces are informed by conversations and on going self exploration delving into his own mind and emotions. In order to generate these pieces he relies on both lived experiences in addition to a photographic practice that captures moments of inspiration and nuance.
Harry can be found on Instagram where he shares occasional teasers of what he is currently working on - https://www.instagram.com/harrycarleyart/
Natalia Khan - Illustrator
Natalia Khan is a recent Illustration graduate from the University of Brighton, who is currently working as a freelance illustrator. As a creative her interests are in storytelling through means of visual art, this led her to this opportunity to work with Louis MacNeice Society. She hopes to gain insight into the art world and experience through this role in order to grow as a creative. As a neurodivergent and south Asian individual, she wants to provide a fresh and innovative perspective to any project she is given, using a variety of mediums. She is inspired by storytelling and the exploration of individual perspectives and likes to captivate people by creating an emotional connection with them through her art. She believes her neurodiversity allows her to have a deep connection with her own emotions and that has influenced her creative journey greatly. In order to portray a strong narrative, she makes communicating complex emotions a priority, and this allows her art to feel more immersive.
Elson Syla - Illustrator
Elson Syla is the one of many, next generation of contemporary artists, looking to forge his name within the society of art and storytelling. With a strong desire to accomplish this, his main forms of practice are oil painting and writing. Through studying a BA in Fine Art, he has also built a collection of illustrations and prints ranging from linos, etchings and screen prints. Elson’s passion relies on telling a story through a single frame. Through this he hopes that his work will evolve into pieces with continuous frames. This passion first set roots from a young age reading and listening to stories from Greek mythology and Albanian history, including the likes of Odysseus and Skanderbeg. As the years went on, he has made it a practice to investigate more ancient telling’s from different cultures and legends from the past. Elson’s quest is to retell these forgotten/unconsidered stories in a more contemporary fashion so that the public are reminded that life, society, and characters are not so different from the past.
We are currently reviewing over a thousand applications for internships. Do you wish to join the team? If so, get in touch with us!