Across the UK and Ireland, arts centres have emerged as pivotal platforms for creativity and community engagement. Despite facing challenges in funding and visibility compared to traditional venues, these vibrant spaces have played a critical role in fostering artistic development and bolstering social and economic well-being. The Covid-19 pandemic highlighted their crucial connection to local communities and their flexibility in adapting to crises. Arts centres have significantly influenced the creation, dissemination, and experience of art, promoting inclusivity, resilience, and cultural richness, thereby reinforcing community bonds.

A series of enlightening discussions will delve into the essential roles that arts centres play in our cultural landscape, especially during turbulent times. One such discussion will be led by Dave Moutrey, a notable Honorary Research Fellow at Creative Manchester, focusing on the evolution of arts centres, their impact on audiences and artists, and their future trajectory.

The inaugural discussion will explore the insights from Arts Council England's funding data, revealing funding dynamics and their consequences. An analysis by Ray Morrison, alongside commentary from industry experts Gavin Barlow and Dr. Jennifer Cleary, will aim to extract knowledge that could guide future developments in arts centres.

The gathering will commence with a complimentary lunch and refreshments at the Martin Harris Centre Foyer at 12:30 pm, followed by a prompt start at 1 pm for the research discussion.

Who should attend?

This gathering welcomes staff, students, and the public, especially those in research, policy-making, and the broader arts sector. It's particularly relevant for individuals interested in creative economies and arts funding policies in the UK.

About Creative Manchester

Creative Manchester serves as an interdisciplinary research platform at The University of Manchester, facilitating collaboration between research communities and external stakeholders. More information can be found on their website: Creative Manchester.

Accessibility

Efforts will be made to ensure that all participants have a positive experience. Attendees should communicate any specific access requirements when registering, or contact creative@manchester.ac.uk for assistance.

Dave Moutrey OBE brings extensive experience in cultural policy as Director of Culture and Creative Industries for Manchester City Council. With a notable background including the founding of HOME, he has made significant contributions to cultural strategy in the city.

Gavin Barlow leads the Future Arts Centres network and has over twenty years of experience as the Chief Executive of the Albany in London, where he drove extensive organizational transformation and engagement with the arts.

Ray Morrison holds a doctoral research position at the University of Sheffield, applying quantitative analysis to explore equity in arts labor and community involvement within the arts sector.

Dr. Jennifer Cleary leads Combined Arts work at Arts Council England and previously directed creative engagement at Manchester International Festival, demonstrating her commitment to participatory arts.

Prof. John Mcauliffe, Director of Creative Manchester, is a noted poet and scholar with significant contributions to literary culture in Ireland and the UK.