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A powerful reflection on Nick Fraser’s legacy, Tate’s history of labour, and the ongoing fight for fairness behind the UK’s leading cultural institution.

Yesterday was my first ever visit to the Frieze Art Fair. After nearly a year of applying through grants and bursaries for a ticket, I had almost given up. Then, last weekend I received an email from Meg Maloy at the Working Arts Club  saying a few Thursday tickets had become available to members. I applied immediately and a few hours later, I got the message, I had one. I felt like Charlie on his way to the Chocolate Factory! After so much waiting, it finally happened. ⸻ Ste

It’s hard to believe it’s been 2 years since I took the leap, to follow an idea, a feeling, a story that felt like it needed to be told....

From Bethnal Green to Hoxton, I stepped into galleries, shared his story, and imagined him walking these same streets decades ago — to the Tate & Lyle factory, to his flat where he painted in private for 30 years.

Born from a dream to give young people the space and encouragement to be seen, heard, and celebrated, the exhibition marked the first ever Imaginative Reaction showcase for artists aged 4–16. And what a day it was.

Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the honour of joining three very different radio platforms to speak about the life and work of Nick Fraser, an artist, friend, and mentor whose story continues to unfold long after his passing.

Curator Marcus O’Shaughnessy reflects on a transformative visit to Sotheby’s London — exploring unseen Picassos, major upcoming auctions, and the quiet work of carrying outsider artist Nick Fraser into the public eye.

Marcus O'Shaughnessy speaks with Lydia El-Khouri on Mix 92.6’s The Parent Show about his journey from youth worker to curator, the legacy of artist Nick Fraser, and the founding of Imaginative Reaction.

Imaginative Reaction. A platform created not just for showcasing art, but for holding space. For grief, for recovery, for expression, for healing. For human beings.

On August 3rd, Imaginative Reaction will host its first ever Young Creatives Open Exhibition at the beautiful Burston Garden Centre in St Albans — a vibrant, family-friendly event set to honour young talent, nurture community connection, and celebrate the power of art in all its forms.

A Renaissance Masterpiece at Risk: UK Government Places Export Bar on Botticelli’s The Virgin and Child Enthroned

As parents, educators, and creators, we're now witnessing a moment where technology offers kids the ability to bring their wildest dreams to life. But as we embrace these tools, a bigger question emerges: Are we expanding children's creativity, or replacing it?

In a world so often driven by spectacle, it’s easy to imagine the art market as a stage, auctions as drama, bids as applause. But recently, a quieter shift has taken place. The art world is beginning to move inward.

In a world where algorithms often overshadow authenticity, platforms like Imaginative Reaction are vital. They provide artists with the space to be truly seen and heard.

Earlier this week, I received a message from BBC Introducing  after submitting one of my recent tracks, Smooth : "Hello Marx James,...

Set in the quiet embrace of St. Martha’s Methodist Church in Tring, An Evening with BoThai was more than a performance

We’re incredibly proud and honoured to share the Chapter 1 - Raw Vision Review

With the disappearance of grassroots clubs & independent venues, are we now in an era where nightlife in main cities is only for the wealthy

This Blog reflects the journey of a curator in the art world, showcasing meaningful collaborations, storytelling through art, and a look

I share my experience visiting the London Print Art Fair at Somerset House, diving into the fascinating world of art prints.