Celebrating Seven Years of STEM to STEAM Suppers

Seven years ago, a bold idea sparked new life into a movement: what if art and creativity were not just complementary to science and technology, but essential catalysts for innovation and improving the human experience? That question became the foundation of this STEM to STEAM quest, and at the heart of this journey stands Carole Bent – a visionary whose passion, dedication and new approach is resonating with entirely new audiences, leading to transformational change.

Carole’s influence on STEM to STEAM cannot be overstated. From the very beginning, she championed the belief that creativity fuels progress, bridging the gap between disciplines and sectors that too often exist in isolation. Her unwavering commitment has inspired educators, artists, scientists, politicians and industry leaders to rethink how we learn, create, and innovate, whilst seeking to create greater equality for the arts.

A very pivotal stage in this initiative was when Dominique Paradis, CEO of Daler-Rowney was introduced to Carole and together, they asked a simple but profound question: how can we best integrate the arts with science and technology in education and industry? With Carole’s guidance and commitment, that question evolved into a mission – one that Daler-Rowney proudly embraced as a British art materials manufacturer since 1783. From that first co-hosted dinner in our Bracknell studio, where we welcomed artists like Michael Corr and eco-fashion pioneers VIN+OMI along with engineers, business leaders, fast jet pilots, doctors and educators, the movement gained momentum, fuelled by collaboration and shared purpose.

This first event demonstrated the quality of creativity, problem solving and new thinking that can emerge by bringing new people together in unconventional ways.

The evening became a touchstone for the potential ahead.

As Founder of the Supper series, Carole feels strongly in the value of relationships and the ability for each of us to positively inspire and encourage positive change, stating ‘how heartening the team at Daler Rowneys genuine commitment, encouragement, creativity and support has been from the start.  With thanks to this extraordinary company and all excellent co-hosts, guests and contributors, a strong foundation now exists.’

On December 8th we held a milestone evening, marking the completion of Series 1 Suppers,  we were proud to introduce guests from across the UK  to South Hill Park, the vibrant arts centre in Bracknell and to raise £544 for the centre in our raffle.  South Hill Park has been at the heart of the town’s cultural life for decades, offering theatre, visual arts, music, workshops, and educational programmes for all ages. Supporting the centre was a natural extension of STEM to STEAM’s mission, reinforcing the belief that access to creativity is essential for learning and innovation.

Reflecting on the growth of STEM to STEAM, Carole Bent said: “When I founded the STEM to STEAM Suppers, the intention was to co-host two or three in six months. Two became twelve, six months became seven years, but the intent and ethos from the outset remained constant – a mix of structure and fluidity, bringing together co-hosts, guests, and contributors from different worlds, sharing perspectives and inspiration. Last week’s gathering at the sparkling South Hill Park Arts Centre was a joy, in large part because of the teams and individuals present, in person and in spirit.”

Carole’s vision aligns perfectly with Dominique’s words that still resonate today: “Creative thinkers and innovators have changed the world forever, some of them through art. We believe Carole’s commitment to STEM to STEAM will create an impact that moves people, ideas, and – long-term – legislative change.” This is more than a project; it’s a commitment to reshaping education and industry for generations to come.

At Daler-Rowney, we understand that art and science are two sides of the same coin. Every pigment, every brushstroke reflects the marriage of precision and imagination. Through STEM to STEAM, we aim to ensure that creativity remains at the heart of progress – whether in classrooms, laboratories, or factories.

As we celebrate this milestone, we look ahead to the next chapter: further advocacy, collaboration, and continued integration of art with STEM disciplines. Carole Bent’s leadership reminds us that when passion meets purpose, extraordinary things happen.

Here’s to Carole, to creativity, to all of us and to a future where we PAINT LOUD^TM, because innovation thrives when art and science work hand in hand.