A new chapter for Simon – from librarian to digital artist

‘Squiggly careers’ are career paths that change direction based on evolving interests, opportunities or circumstances. 

The term, coined by Sarah Ellis and Helen Tupper, reflects the reality that many people no longer follow a traditional, linear career trajectory. Instead, modern working lives are often shaped by adaptation and reinvention, with individuals moving between roles, sectors, or even entirely new professions. 

This concept will feel familiar to many of PRIME Cymru’s clients, who often experience unexpected diversions in their career path and turn to us for support navigating these changing tides. 

Simon Mapp, 60, worked for 22 years as an academic librarian in his local further education college. After leaving this role under a severance scheme, Simon decided he wanted to try working for himself rather than for someone else. 

While age was not a barrier for Simon when setting up his own business, he felt it did impact his chances of securing paid employment. 

He said: “Age discrimination may be illegal but that doesn’t stop people doing it, unfortunately.

“When I was 58, I applied for a job that required a specific degree – which I have – and experience in academic libraries, which I had over 20 years of. I didn’t even get an interview. I can think of no reason except for my age that could explain this.” 

He added: “During my career at the college I was also taking photos, painting, doing digital art and exploring AI art and having my work regularly exhibited, in places such as Los Angeles, Barcelona, Athens and London and published internationally.” 

Artwork by Simon Mapp

With a strong foundation to build on, Simon realised that pursuing his art full time felt like the most natural and fulfilling next step in his career. 

PRIME Cymru’s Development Officer, Caroline Allen, was on hand to support Simon as he transitioned to self-employment, letting him know about relevant funding opportunities and helping him to build valuable professional connections. 

Simon said: “She has been able to give me advice, put me in touch with people I otherwise wouldn’t have even known about, let alone known how to contact, and has on more than one occasion phoned me up to talk to me when I’ve had problems to give me moral support and advice.” 

Simon is now a professional artist using photography, digital art and AI to create distinctive pieces. His work is designed to be displayed as fine art prints, but he also accepts commercial design commissions and collaborations, including adverts, posters and album covers. 

Going forward, Simon hopes to set up a commercial gallery dedicated to AI and digital art in physical print format – a concept that would be unique in Britain. 

If your career path is moving in a new direction, PRIME Cymru can give you free support along the way. Please call us on 01550 721813 or email enquiries@primecymru.co.uk.