About Amanda

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Welcome! I’m Amanda Wood, a creative producer, program manager, and community development specialist based in the South West of the UK. With over two decades of experience across multidisciplinary creative arts, education, and community activity, I specialise in high-impact, sustainable projects that bring people together, foster growth, and celebrate creativity. As the founder and CEO of Urban-Vertical CIC, my passion lies in using the arts to enhance community well-being, create inclusive spaces, and support a holistic approach to personal and collective growth.

Throughout my career, I’ve developed and delivered programmes that combine creative excellence with therapeutic play and curiosity-driven experimentation. Whether working in creative arts, or community settings, I integrate Participatory Action Research (PAR) principles, embedding community participation, co-production, and collaboration at every step. I believe that creativity flourishes when grounded in holistic health, which includes a focus on food and nutrition for both mind and body. My work with the NHS partnership in fund writing helped secure resources for the Space to Grow Arts & Health programme, an initiative dedicated to supporting community mental health through the arts. I am driven by a vision where art, well-being, and social connection unite, enabling individual and community transformation.