A Vision for Creative and Cultural Infrastructure in Cartagena
By Royland Robinson | Founder, Natural Culture Studios
Introduction
Natural Culture Resources is a forthcoming cultural and creative resource center based in Cartagena, Colombia. This initiative stems from my longstanding commitment to creative entrepreneurship and my direct experience working with artists, travelers, and local communities in Cartagena and across the Americas.
The vision is clear: to establish a sustainable, locally rooted, and globally connected space that supports cultural preservation, artistic production, and economic growth through creativity. This project is the evolution of my work with Natural Culture Studios, a photography and videography studio that currently serves as a meeting point for content creators, travelers, and cultural storytellers.
Academic Foundation
This work is informed by my background in global development and entrepreneurship. I earned a degree in Business Culture from the Thunderbird School of Global Management, an institution globally recognized for its leadership in international business education and cross-cultural management. Founded in 1946, Thunderbird has long trained professionals for complex, multilingual, and multicultural environments, with a mission to develop global leaders who create sustainable prosperity worldwide.
Through Thunderbird, I developed the strategic, marketing, and organizational skills required to scale creative ventures that operate at the intersection of culture, community, and commerce.
Why Cartagena?
Cartagena is a historic coastal city with deep Afro-Caribbean roots, a thriving tourism economy, and a vibrant yet under-resourced creative sector. Over the past three years, I have worked closely with a wide range of creatives, travelers, and cultural leaders in Cartagena, and I have witnessed firsthand the potential that exists when international interest meets local talent and historical richness.
However, access to professional resources—such as studio space, training, and creative infrastructure—is limited. There is a critical need for spaces that support not just production, but collaboration, mentorship, and long-term development.
Project Overview
Natural Culture Resources will operate as a multi-use cultural and entrepreneurial space. Key features will include:
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A professional photography and videography studio
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A sound and recording suite for musicians and producers
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A café highlighting Afro-Caribbean and Jamaican culinary traditions
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A creative residency program for international artists
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Educational programming focused on media, storytelling, and entrepreneurship
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Cultural walking tours and immersive experiences tailored to visitors
The center will serve both the local community and global creatives seeking to engage with Cartagena in a deeper, more intentional way.
Funding and Timeline
We are currently in the development and fundraising phase, with a projected launch in 2026. Contributions and bookings made through Natural Culture Studios will directly support this initiative. Our goal is to raise funds for the build-out of the space, equipment procurement, staffing, and the launch of our first residency and community workshops.
Supporters will find more detailed information about the campaign, refund policies, and contribution options through the following links:
Closing
Natural Culture Resources is not simply a business expansion—it is a cultural investment. It represents the next step in building a platform that honors the legacy of Cartagena while fostering innovation, access, and creativity for future generations.
Thank you for your continued support. Whether through booking a session, joining a group experience, or contributing to the campaign, you are helping us build something meaningful.
For more information, visit naturalculturestudios.com.