© Team photographs by Wendy Aiken

MEET OUR TEAM

The Bank Arts Centre is run by a dedicated team of volunteers and staff from Eyes Open CIC. We share a passion for making creativity accessible to our rural community, and providing and inspiring, safe and welcoming place for all. We are incredibly proud to be a local, creative-led arts venue, and our new leadership team bring a wealth of knowledge, fresh perspective and innovation to the centre.

​Find out more about our Directors here - 

JON BETTS
Director, General Manager & The Vault Project Manager

Jon has a background in IT Support and over 30 years experience as an Events Promoter and Organiser, including running live music events at Colchester Arts Centre for 13 years. 

Jon joined the team in Spring 2022 after moving to Suffolk and established The Bank's Digital Hub - The Vault. Working with Gaming Industry professionals to develop the innovative project providing subsidised digital training and learning opportunities for young people aged 8-16. Since it's launch, The Vault has provided access to digital skills for over 900 young people.

Jon was further appointed General Manager, overseeing the daily operations of the Centre and transforming all aspects of its functions.

ABBIE SCHUG
Director & Curator

Abbie is a practising artist with an MA in Fine Art - exhibiting her work nationally, including Trinity Buoy Wharf Drawing Prize 2024. As a student she was shortlisted for the CVAN Platform Graduate Award. Abbie's paintings and research essays have been featured in publications and symposiums furthering discourse on contemporary painting practices.

Since joining the team in 2022, she has lead the re-development of the Centre’s creative direction. A passionate advocate for the arts, Abbie has revitalised the exhibitions programme, ensuring The Bank remains a dynamic platform for local artists. She has curated a vibrant programme supporting regional artists and re-launched The Bank’s annual Young Artist Award to recognise and nurture exceptional young creatives.

LIAM HAYES
Director

​​Liam is a Part-time teacher and professional musician with industry experience performing in bands both on stage and in the studio - played all over the UK, working on stages at Latitude Music Festival (through organising student engagement and showcase programmes) and supporting bands such as Scouting for Girls, East 17 and The Feeling.

​A passionate educator and producer, regularly teaches Music technology and production classes for Young People at The Bank and other local venues. Liam joined the Team in December 2023 and helping to expand the Centre’s music programme, focusing on supporting local and emerging musicians, providing uplifting experiences for the community, and attracting new audiences to The Bank.