Get to know the individuals behind The Institute of Creativity (TIOC) and the advisory team that provides valuable guidance along the way. Learn about their journeys, the experiences that shaped them, and what inspired them to join this exciting initiative.

TIOC FOUNDERS

BART-JAN STEERENBERG - FOUNDER & DIRECTOR

TIOC's Founding Father. Bart-Jan is a creativity researcher and lecturer at the Faculty of Digital Media and Creative Industries (FDMCI) in Amsterdam. With extensive experience in media production, applied ga

ming, sound engineering, and immersive environments, he's been involved in the creation of sponsored films, animations, documentaries, advertisements, apps, and more.

With a passion for unlocking the power of creativity, Bart-Jan is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and insights with others, and inspiring the next generation of creative thinkers and doers.

Want to know more? Read our complete interview with Bart-Jan.

ANNELOES VAN GAALEN - FOUNDER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Queen Content & Branding. Anneloes is a versatile writer, branding and strategy consultant, marketing and PR specialist, storyteller and all-around creative. With a diverse skill set and a wealth of experience, Anneloes is a true powerhouse in the world of marketing and creative branding.

Throughout her career, Anneloes has worked on a wide range of projects, from developing brand strategies for small startups to managing global PR campaigns for large corporations. Her expertise in marketing, branding, and storytelling has helped businesses of all kinds to tell compelling stories and connect with their audiences in meaningful ways. She brings her unique blend of creativity, insight, and expertise to every project she undertakes.

ADVISORY BOARD

KEVIN WALKER

Kevin Walker, an Associate Professor of Immersive Media at Coventry University, leads a research theme, focused on AI and Algorithmic Cultures at the Centre for Postdigital Cultures. His research encompasses the intersection of natural and computational systems (more about that later). 

With a background in anthropology, art, and technology, he explores his findings in theory and practice through software programming, exhibitions, events, and performances, as well as academic and creative writing.

Want to know more? Read our complete interview with Kevin.

CATERINA MORUZZI  

Caterina Moruzzi is a Chancellor's Fellow in Design Informatics at the School of Design, University of Edinburgh, and a BRAID Research Fellow. Her research focuses on promoting the responsible integration of Artificial Intelligence tools into creative practices.

She holds a Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Nottingham (2018) and an Artist Diploma in Piano Performance from the Conservatorio G.B. Martini in Bologna, Italy (2014).

Since 2024, she has been leading the research cluster Creativity, AI, and the Human at the Edinburgh Futures Institute, University of Edinburgh.

JEROEN DISCH 

Jeroen Disch is a designer with over 20 years of experience in brand identity, digital design, and AI. He has led design teams at agencies such as GRRR and Bravoure and now works as an independent art director and design educator. 

Passionate about sharing knowledge, Jeroen inspires designers through his lectures and Halfvet — a biweekly newsletter followed by more than 2,500 Dutch creatives.

Want to know more? Read our complete interview with Jeroen.