Inclusion In The Arts

About We Connect

We Connect serves as a mechanism for bringing together Portsmouth’s creative and cultural sector. Through networking and peer-to-peer knowledge exchange, delegates will have the chance to learn from one another, share experiences, and develop new ideas.

We Connect is curated and delivered by Portsmouth Creates, a local community interest company with a mission to drive the collective growth of Portsmouth’s creative economy. Our goal is to build a more confident and resilient sector through shared learning and experiences.

We Connect in partnership with This New Ground 2025 – Inclusion in the Arts…

This year's conference has been curated to enhance the connections within our creative community. In partnership with This New Ground, it has been designed to be a platform for learning, exchange and inspiration with inclusion at the very heart.

We Connect Aims:

Inspire: Discover new perspectives and ideas that can elevate your creative practice.

Collaborate: Create shared learning experiences and meaningful partnerships that can lead to inclusive projects and opportunities.

Contribute: Play a vital role in shaping the future of Portsmouth’s creative community by sharing your voice and expertise.

Thursday 25th September 2025

10:00 – Arrivals & Refreshments Enjoy tea, coffee and light refreshments on arrival.

10:30 – Welcome

11:00 – Session 1

• Main Auditorium – Panel Talk Working with Learning Disabled Artists: Hear from industry leaders as they explore the meaning of inclusive arts.

• The Portsmouth Room – Creative Workshop join a creative session exploring - TBC

• Zodiac Gallery – Skills Sharing Diversifying Income: Contribute, explore and learn about the art of diversifying income.

11:45 – Comfort Break

12:15 – Session 2

• Main Auditorium – Panel Talk The Future of Access for Audiences: Hear from industry experts as they challenge the importance of access.

• The Portsmouth Room – Creative Workshop Inclusive Digital Art: Explore the practice of digital art.

• Zodiac Gallery – Skills Sharing Learning Disabled Leadership and Inclusive Dance: Discover leadership and dance inclusivity.

13:00 – Lunch

14:00 – Session 3

• Main Auditorium – Panel Talk How We Make Governance Accessible: Hear from industry experts as they share lived experiences of opportunities and challenges.

• The Portsmouth Room – Creative Workshop Puffing and Wooling, a mindful, poetic and relaxing creative session.

• Zodiac Gallery – Skills Sharing Working Internationally: Explore opportunities and challenges with industry experts.

15:00 – Closing Session

15:30 – Networking

17:00 – Event Close

***** NOTICE FOR BOOKING *****

PLEASE BOOK ONE GENERAL ADMISSION TICKET PER ATTENDEE IN ADDITION TO THIS, PLEASE SELECT AND BOOK A TICKET FOR EACH SESSION - THIS MEANS SESSION ONE, TWO AND THREE. IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO BOOK THE SESSION IT MEANS THIS HAS ALREADY SOLD OUT.

Portsmouth Creates CIC Registered in England Number 12367811. 1- 6 City Buildings, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 4BD