Damian Kelly Basher

I’m Michael Woods, Managing Director of Solent Sky Services, which I run with my wife Sara from Portsmouth. I’ve always been creative and into tech, and drones brought the two together. Since 2017 I’ve been hooked on flying and telling stories from the air. I’m a CAA-qualified drone pilot, and I also shoot on the ground with cinema cameras, direct and edit. I love working with artists and have filmed with Olana Light and Roo Abrook, captured the Lido Lives dance film for Portsmouth 100 and cover Look Up Festival every year. I’ve run drone workshops, supported two apprentices through their courses and enjoy helping others into the industry. I’m always happy to talk ideas, collaborate and help artists see their work from a new perspective.

I am a professional artist, dancer and workshop facilitator recognised for hand painted murals, creative workshops and theatrical collaborative performances. Delivering detailed paintings, innovative workshops, and explorative collaborations, my work caters to the immediate environment with the aims to elevate spaces, inspire individuals and encourage unity. Commissioned by different councils, shops and organisations to design and paint murals reflecting nature. Produce workshops that include art and movement practice. Collaborated with multiple groups and particularly enjoy performing with spoken word artists. Over 10 years in the arts, commissioned by Tameside Council, Wembley Park, Harrow Council and charities such as MyYard.

I’m an artist and creative producer with a wealth of experience of founding arts ventures and running arts venues, programmes, events, exhibitions and festivals – with a focus on fun and innovative approaches to animating underused spaces. Most recently I’ve had the privilege of setting up Saint John’s Arts’ Programme, collaborating with a large Education Trust to provide new exciting opportunities for young people to get involved in the arts in Gosport. I’ve also worked as Producer for Journeys Festival International, and held previous roles at ArtSpace Portsmouth, Liverpool Biennial and founded The Royal Standard (gallery, studios and social workspace), and Mighty Oak Creative Agency.