Beata Kade
CEO Art of Multimedia
I have the analytical mind of a philosopher, the drive of a project manager and the creative spirit of a storyteller, always seeking meaningful connections between people. I’m curious and appreciative of the diversity of experiences and perspectives the world offers, and have spent decades using technology to serve human connection rather than replace it. I enjoy abstract thinking and innovating, which helps me be an effective conductor within an orchestra of experts. I value all relationships and enjoy guiding people to bring their best to complex challenges, as we work to create something of value.
Whether I’m collaborating with subject matter experts, telling human stories, or helping solve visitor experience challenges, I know interpretation can transform both individuals and communities. My approach is grounded in genuine curiosity about people’s stories and a passion for creating experiences that resonate long after the visit ends.
What was the start of your interpretation journey?
My education has been self-directed, drawing from books, courses, conferences, and other sources as circumstances demanded new skills and knowledge. Over four decades, this has allowed me to develop expertise across communications and digital sectors while evolving my business with technology. My technical and creative teams are constantly teaching me, and working alongside historians, archaeologists, curators, Traditional Owners, and fellow interpreters, I’ve learned much about the complexities of heritage interpretation. This continuous learning approach is essential in a field where technology and best practices evolve rapidly.
What does interpretation mean to you?
Creating meaningful bridges between expert knowledge and public understanding – transforming “that’s interesting” into “that matters to me.” The best interpretation doesn’t just inform; it shifts perspective and creates lasting connections to place, culture, and community.
When and how did you start working in interpretation?
After twenty years in corporate communications, the Rocks Discovery Museum project in 2005 opened my eyes to interpretation’s unique power. Working alongside historians and curators, I relished the difference between communication that informs or sells and communication that connects people to their heritage.
Technology continues to reshape our industry – from early multimedia presentations to today’s immersive and location-based experiences. While the learning curve is steep, I’m energised by opportunities to co-create with talented people on projects that genuinely matter. Each new challenge pushes us to find more innovative ways to help audiences connect with the stories that surround them.
What is your favourite interpretive project to date and why?
Three projects stand out for the ways they expanded my understanding of what interpretation can achieve:
1. The Rocks Discovery Museum – our entry point into interpretation, where I learned that the most compelling stories often emerge from the intersection of rigorous research and creative presentation.
2. Murrook Culture Centre – a transformative collaboration that deepened my understanding of cultural sovereignty and community-led interpretation. The recognition from both technology and cultural sectors validated our approach, but the relationships and learning were the real rewards.
3. Cockatoo Island audio tours and films—where we produced quality stories and the culmination of years of developing location-responsive technology that truly serves storytelling rather than dominating it.
What role does Interpretation have in the world today?
In an era of information overload, interpretation serves as a bridge between expert knowledge and public understanding. We help people discover why heritage matters – not just historically or ecologically, but personally. Good interpretation creates space for multiple perspectives and encourages active engagement with the stories that shape our communities.
Our role extends beyond education to fostering empathy, cultural understanding, and environmental stewardship. In a world that often feels divided, interpretation creates opportunities for shared experience and common ground. It’s both a privilege and a responsibility to help people see themselves as agents in ongoing stories rather than passive observers of the past.
