Rachel has been a significant figure in shaping the arts and culture scene in Bognor Regis, particularly through her involvement with the Big Blake Project and BlakeFest.
Rachel is also a member of the BRAIN Steering Group.
Her work is deeply inspired by William Blake, the renowned poet, painter, and visionary who lived in nearby Felpham from 1800 to 1803. During his time there, Blake wrote the words to the hymn "Jerusalem," and Rachel has made it her mission to celebrate his legacy while fostering a vibrant cultural identity for the area.
As the artistic director of BlakeFest, an annual arts festival in Bognor Regis, Rachel has created a platform that blends music, poetry, visual art, and discussions on imagination and social justice. The festival, rooted in Blake’s vision of Felpham as a place where "Heaven opens here on all sides her golden gates," aims to honor his influence while spotlighting contemporary artists and performers. Over the years, BlakeFest has featured diverse acts—ranging from international musicians to local poets—and events like silent discos, graffiti exhibitions, and guided walks, making it a unique cultural experience by the sea. Rachel’s goal extends beyond celebration; she sees the festival as a tool for regeneration, aiming to put Bognor Regis on the map as a creative hub.
Beyond BlakeFest, Rachel has contributed to broader arts initiatives in the town. She was instrumental in the Big Blake Project, which includes efforts like the William Blake Trail—a creative map installed around Felpham and Bognor Regis to highlight Blake’s historical presence. Her work has also intersected with community-driven projects, such as protecting local green spaces and encouraging public engagement with the arts. Rachel’s vision aligns with recent developments in Bognor Regis, like the refurbishment of the Alexandra Theatre and the town’s recognition by Arts Council England as a "Levelling Up for Culture Place," signaling growing investment in its creative industries.