ABOUT BIG BRUE
A meeting ground for culture, thought and real-world change.
Big Brue brings together artists, writers, thinkers and global decision-makers to exchange ideas and challenge assumptions. We believe that the best conversations happen when diverse minds come together in inspiring spaces.
Small Town
Bruton may be small, but it punches above its weight. A vibrant creative community, world-class galleries, and some of the best food in the South West make it the perfect host for meaningful conversation.
Big Ideas
From climate action to cultural renewal, from personal transformation to systemic change - we tackle the questions that matter. Not just talking, but doing.
Our Story
Big Brue was born from a simple observation: the best ideas emerge when creative people from different worlds collide. Too often, artists talk to artists, politicians to politicians, business to business. We wanted to break down those walls.
The result? Conversations that surprise, inspire, and - we hope - lead to action.
OUR VALUES
Real Dialogue
Not lectures. Not panels where everyone agrees. Real conversations between people with different perspectives, searching for common ground.
Local & Global
Rooted in Somerset but connected to the world. We celebrate local producers, artists and communities while bringing in global perspectives.
Action-Oriented
Talk is cheap unless it leads somewhere. We're not just about conversation - we're about what comes next. Practical, achievable change.
OUR VENUE PARTNER
Hauser & Wirth Somerset
Set on the historic Durslade Farm, Hauser & Wirth Somerset is one of the world's most distinctive art centres. The gallery hosts world-class exhibitions, while the surrounding gardens and farm provide a stunning natural setting.
Together with the Roth Bar & Grill, the acclaimed restaurant on site, this is a destination that brings together art, food, nature and community - the perfect home for Big Brue.
Visit Hauser & Wirth SomersetTHE TEAM
Big Brue is brought to you by a team of passionate people who believe in the power of conversation.
Mariella Frostrup
A leading journalist, broadcaster and author who has championed the value of arts and culture throughout her career. She has presented major TV and radio programmes and interviewed global figures across politics, the arts and public life.
Catherine Fairweather
An award-winning journalist, editor, author and podcaster with a career spanning broadcasting, publishing and PR. She now lives in Somerset, where she oversees the archive and work of her husband, photographer Sir Don McCullin.
Eleanor O'Keeffe
Senior Director of Corporate Sustainability (EMEA) at Edelman, advising global clients on climate and sustainability communications. Formerly Editorial Director of CogX and co-founder of 5x15, she holds a PhD in History from Cambridge.
Jason McCue
An international lawyer specialising in human rights, counter-terrorism, transitional justice, and lawfare—advising governments, international bodies and victims' groups worldwide. He is a founding partner of McCue Jury & Partners and Ebro Global, and leads Ukraine's Civil Society Lawfare Programme.
Colin Midson
Colin has more than 25 years' experience in publishing, live events and programming, having worked with organisations including Bloomsbury and Random House and curated the internationally renowned Port Eliot Festival, Charleston, and Falmouth Book Festival.
Rebecca McClelland
Rebecca is an art production specialist and curator. As a Global Executive Creative Producer she collaborates with the world's most creative brands. Formerly Head of Art Production for Saatchi & Saatchi, Rebecca draws on her many years' experience as a Photo Director on editorials including the Sunday Times Magazine, Wallpaper* and New Statesman.
GET IN TOUCH
Questions, partnership enquiries, or just want to say hello?
or email info@bigbrue.com