In 2016, the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation (UK Branch) launched The Inquiry into the Civic Role of Arts Organisations in order to promote the valuable role that arts organisations do and could play in their communities. Since then, the relationship between the public and arts organisations has continued to change. More than ever, those receiving public investment need to articulate the value they bring, including to their local communities. The Inquiry has been aiming to connect those that believe that the arts are central to society and want their organisation to play a civic role.
Over the last five years, a lot has changed in the Civic Role narrative. The COVID-19 crisis and its devastating impact on our sector, and across society as a whole has reignited the debate on what it means to be relevant to our communities. Now more than ever, we need a strategic vision for the future which has communities at the centre of artistic practice and the arts at the centre of civic life. Over the last year we have seen how many art organisations were able to mobilise their relationships both within the local arts ecosystem and with wider civil society. There are opportunities to embed the lessons learned and take further action as we move towards recovery.
This workshop is a chance for you to reflect on the changes and learning that has taken place, craft an inspiring Civic Role vision for the future and commit to action to get us there.
Who is it for?
The workshop is open to all, including artists and freelancers, but will be particularly useful to leaders, trustees and representatives of arts organisations of all sizes who are involved in strategic planning and building a post-pandemic recovery.
We hope you will come away with:
- A refreshed sense of connection to your Civic Role;
- A clear vision of what your priorities are and where you are on the journey;
- Plenty of insight, inspiration and ideas from your peers.
The workshop will be experiential and interactive.
Please note that this is a 2-hour Zoom workshop. We will start at our usual What Next? meeting time but suggest you set aside an extra hour to allow space and time for rich discussion.
Comfort and access breaks will be scheduled and people can come and go as required.
Workshops will be captioned. If you have other access requirements please contact your Chapter Chairs so we can discuss how we can best support you.