2020
Alchemy of Arts was founded by Jessica Cobourn. Jessica's journey as a multidisciplinary creative professional began with a Bachelor of Visual Communication Design, where she honed her skills in visual storytelling and aesthetic composition. Complementing her design expertise, she delved into the world of fashion, earning a Diploma in Fashion Design & Clothing Production, infusing her work with a keen sense of style and flair.
Driven by a quest for personal growth and holistic understanding, Jessica expanded her horizons beyond the creative realm. She obtained a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training Certification, embodying a mindful approach to her artistic endeavours. Additionally, her exploration of psychology led her to acquire a Bachelor of Psychological Science, nurturing a deep understanding of the human psyche and emotional resonance.
Jessica's vast repertoire of talents extends far beyond her educational achievements. She has lent her creative genius to an impressive array of projects, leaving her mark on esteemed events such as the Olympic Games' opening ceremony, Fashion Runway events, Music Video Production, Advertisement & Video Production, Artisan Markets, and a host of renowned festivals including Burning Seed Festival, Rabbits Eat Lettuce Festival, Festival of the Sun, Future Forest Festival, and many more.
2021
Jessica's expertise has been sought after by esteemed organizations including Newcastle City Council, Maitland City Council, and Port Stephens Council, entrusting her with the curation and execution of their events. Jessica has also played an integral role in the Newcastle Fringe Festival, a celebration of artistic diversity and creativity.
When collaborating with Jessica, clients are transported into a world where grounded manifestation meets boundless imagination. Her unique perspective and holistic consideration breathe life into every project, ensuring a professional creative edge that sets her work apart.
2022
Within Alchemy of Arts, Jessica has gathered a team of like-minded and multi-talented creative professionals who share her vision for pushing artistic boundaries and delivering exceptional quality. Together, we form a collective committed to providing Newcastle City and its surroundings with unparalleled creative products and services. This team includes the radically talented Rachel Dryden, who progressed within the ranks of Alchemy of Arts from performer to Business Partner.
2023
With careful and considered negotiation, Rachel takes the reigns of Alchemy of Arts as the new sole owner of this creative, entertainment and performing arts collective. Rachel is a seasoned performer with extensive training in yoga, dance, and circus arts and has achieved the following qualifications:
BSc - Psychology
Master of Environmental Science
Yoga Teacher Training - Byron Yoga Centre (200 hour)
Rainbow Kids Yoga Teacher Training
Insight Yoga - Yin Yoga Teacher Training
Foundations of Yoga Therapy - Adore Yoga (150 hours)
Yoga Teacher Training - Ashtanga Yoga Newcastle (150 hours)
Cert 4 in Work Health & Safety
Cert 3 in Dance, Theatre & Events - TAFE NSW
Rachel brings a wealth of experience to Alchemy of Arts, having performed with the following organisations: Celestial Circus, Into the Shadow, Darkside Masks, Amazon Art Collective, Soulfire Circus, Ifritah, Curious Legends, Creative Creatures, Marnie Lane Events, Empress Stilt Dance, and many more. Additionally, Rachel has pursued her passion for performing arts through taking live performance to the following festivals: Newcastle Fringe Festival, Wagga Fringe Festival, Dubbo Fringe Festival, Dragon Dreaming Festival, Subsonic Festival, Woodford Folk Festival, and countless more.
2024
Alchemy of Arts continues to expand, with a particular focus on offering our unique flair of live performance to the Sydney market. We successfully performed roving entertainment at the New Beginnings Festival at the Sydney Maritime Museum. Much to the delight of festival participants and clients alike, fulfilling the brief of 'redefining ageing'.
Additionally, Rachel has launched into the world of mermaiding! Achieving PADI certifications to Advanced Mermaid level. This has led to Rachel acting in short films as a mermaid, which represents another service line offering for Alchemy of Arts.