Anti Copying in Design (ACID) is delighted to announce the appointment of Kate Mason as Director of Marketing. Kate will begin her new role on 3 April 2023.

Kate brings a wealth of experience to the ACID team not only from her impressive credentials within the creative industries but also from her pioneering role leading The Big Draw, now a global organisation, helping children to recognise their creative soul through exploration and expression of ideas. Kate also brings her enthusiasm and passion for arts and crafts as Chair of the Society for Designer Craftsmen (SDC).

On her appointment Kate said, “I can’t think of a more exciting time to be getting involved with this pioneering organisation which in so many ways is ahead of the curve in its focus, horizon scanning and leadership. It’s agility, reach and the breadth and nature of the membership ensure it is uniquely positioned. It is able to not only champion and be a leading voice against design theft, but also play a central role in the ongoing and developing narrative around copying in the creative industries and evidencing and mitigating this impact.”

Dids Macdonald OBE., CEO of ACID said, “The team and I can’t wait for Kate to get started. ACID is at a pivotal time in our history, twenty-five years from its inception and together with Kate, we look to the next period of campaigning, growth and engagement with passion. As a committed advocate of the value of arts, craft and design she is streets ahead of most about understanding the importance of intellectual property as a positive force for growth.”

About Kate:

Kate Mason has worked consistently in a variety of roles across the arts, heritage, community, cultural and creative industry sectors over the last 28 years.  A strategist, persuader and cultural broker, she is a passionate advocate for the value of the arts, crafts and design and their role in supporting a thriving pipeline of creative talent.

Kate’s early passion kick-started her career with an MA in Heritage Studies with a focus on Museums and Galleries interpretation.  Her thesis explored the Arts & Crafts Movement and the role and influence of William Morris and John Ruskin across arts, crafts and design. These interests continue to be reflected in her ongoing work and commitments.

Kate most recently worked at charity The Big Draw in her role as Director, channelling her passions in neat alignment in support of their visual literacy agenda and in support of the role and value of creativity in enriching all aspects of our lives.

Kate is a Companion of The Guild of St George, an educational charity devoted to the arts, crafts and the rural economy which was founded in 1871 by John Ruskin. The Big Draw also runs the UK wide John Ruskin Contemporary Arts and Crafts Prize. Kate is also a Trustee of the House of Imagination, an arts-based action research charity which supports children in their exploration and expression of ideas, helping them develop creative skills for life.

Kate is also Chair, Trustee and Council Member of The Society of Designer Craftsmen Est.1887. Originally called The Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society, the organisation continues to promote and support the work of creative thinkers, designers and makers who innovate through their exploration of materials and skills.

She is a Fellow of the RSA and has two children, two cats and lives in East London with her family. She likes to draw, knit, sew and visit exhibitions and historic sites of interest.