As Grand Bard of Exeter, I have taken an oath to the land and the people of Exeter, to represent them as Bard, through the arts of poetry, story and music.
Over the course of the 7 year position (2019-2026) it is up to me to decide what I shall do to fulfill that oath. There is no fee associated with being a Bard and I can choose everything myself, but of course it is best to start always by listening to the city, the land and the people, and calling in the Arwen – spirit of inspiration.
2023 Manifesto: Music in Protest – to contribute to the soundtrack of this revolution, representing the land and the people in song within protest movements/demonstrations/events.
2020-2022 Pandemic Manifesto: To represent the people through story collection through my broadcasting relationship with BBC Devon as Artist in Residence for the Arts & Culture Show during the Pandemic.
2019 Manifesto: To represent Exeter as a Musician and Spoken Word artist in Extinction Rebellions Climate Protests.
For the whole time:
Hosting Exeter Story Club – 1st Wednesday of every month.
Writing a novel: Over the last few years I have written a novel https://www.kimwei.com/bard-of-exeter/l inspired by Exeter, as part of my Bardic work. I am currently working on a 3rd draft under the guidance of an agent.
To ensure there is an online profile for Bards of Exeter, here at https://www.kimwei.com/bard-of-exeter/
Representing the people of Exeter on BBC Radio Devon. Over the years I have done this as a Pause For Thought contributor (discontinued) with Laura James, an Artist in Residence (Arts & Culture Show with Sarah Gosling) mentioned above, and I am now a regular guest on BBC Radio Devon’s mid morning topical discussions with David FitzGerald.
2018 “normal” Bard Manifesto: I was in the 1 year position of Bard of Exeter (as opposed to Grand Bard) in 2018 and my manifesto was lengthy and based on 4 principles:
- Supporting the existing scene.
- Encouraging crosspollination and integration within in the bardic arts.
- Seeking new artists and new audiences – outreach.
- Being visible and active as bard to achieve the above.