Mark Best
Currently working as a Temp at the RD&E in Exeter, we speak to Mark Best - the creator behind the latest writing salon, Campfire. He was previously a freelance PR Consultant for artists and photographers, working with the likes of David Bailey among other well-known artists. He is also a freelance LesMills Fitness Instructor, teaching at the University of Exeter. Mark sits as a Board Member for Art Work Exeter, a CIC organisation that organises arts events across the city and surrounding area.
What do you do?
I organise a writers event at The Mermaid on Gandy Street called Campfire. The event is held every three months and invites people to write original pieces that they read out to the audience. Each event is focussed around a prompt phrase that the writers respond to.
Give us a bite-sized history of your event
The idea for Campfire came about because I was looking for more arts-focussed events in the city and found there was a lack of creative writing evenings that were aimed at non-professional writers.
The first event attracted some brand new writers to read out their pieces, and a small audience of people who had come to listen to their friends, and others who were interested in how the event ran and will be submitting pieces for the next event on May 21st.
Name one thing that would make your life easier as an artist or arts organiser.
More support from the council or government that would allow better funding for local arts organisations to flourish.
And what keeps you going when things get tough?
My husband and my two dogs and regular trips to the beach on sunny days. We moved here in September 2020 and every now and then we look at each other and say “We live here………” happy that we live in Exeter and Devon.
What does the next year look like for you?
As we have only held one Campfire so far I’m really looking forward to the event getting bigger in its audience reach and becoming regular feature on the Arts calendar.
I’m looking forward to the next three Campfire event this year and growing my connections in this city. I’m also looking forward to making my own shirts as the need to make something physical has become quite strong.
Picture of attendees at the event.
What’s been the best moment for you?
At the end of the first event, I made a point of talking to everyone who attended and was really heartened to hear that people enjoyed it and would be attending again. It was a nice feeling to know that the night had inspired people to be creative.
What if ….?
I would love to find out more writing groups and other local arts organisations in this city. I feel that many of the smaller groups are not as well known as the larger ones and there could be more connections made between them.
How do we find out more?
Email – campfireexeter@gmail.com
Instagram - @campfireexeter
The next Campfire will be taking place at The Refuge underneath The Mermaid on Gandy Street on May 21st 2025, 7pm. Writers prompt – “Don’t worry, I’m not staying…”.