The programme of the 2015 ACT | UJ Arts & Culture
Conference is focused around the theme Creatives
Make It Happen; and promises an alternative offering to the usual
conference fare.
Due to take place in Johannesburg in March, conference
delegates can look forward to engaging in practical ways with attendees,
speakers and industry professionals; with a focus on cultivating business ideas
and best practice in a contemporary creative South Africa.
The third ACT | UJ Arts & Culture Conference will be a
healthy mix of sessions presented by thought and industry leaders; and varied
opportunities for more direct engagement with interesting spaces and practicing
creatives who are ‘making it happen’. Each cluster of sessions will focus on a
different aspect affecting the creative community, allowing those who would
prefer to engage only with one specific area of interest to do so, if they are
unable to attend the full conference.
Because the creative sector naturally pursues alternative
ways of thinking and doing things, this creates a stimulating environment;
which can appear disorganised and incohesive – and therefore difficult to
engage with for those who sit on the edges. Yet this focus on unconventional
thinking is what builds the intrinsic value of the creative industries.
This gathering presents an invaluable chance for people
working at different levels and in different contexts in the sector to meet and
learn from one another, in order to make better use of the opportunities
available. From those driving policy and interrogating academic concepts, to
representatives of big business and funding agencies, to those running or
supporting formal and informal creative businesses; everyone involved in
driving economic value through a creative venture has a place in this
conversation.
An opening evening geared towards introductions of a
creative, intellectual and social nature will set the scene, ensuring
participants are well-prepared for the rest of the event. The next day, a
cluster of sessions will roll out, providing an overview of the local and international
creative industries, and where South Africa is placed in terms of this. Key
personalities will give insight into the thinking and more formal structures
within which the South African market is operating, and allow for insightful
discussion around fundamental matters.
Specific examples of new and current business models,
featuring presentations from different kinds of creatives who are pursuing
alternative ways of sustaining their businesses, will formulate the third
cluster; while a fourth cluster of sessions will be looking at the
intersections of brands, business and the arts, and examining shared value – a
fresh look at partnerships and opportunities from each perspective.
A particularly exciting addition to the 2015 conference
offering is a tour taking delegates into nearby creative communities to engage
practically with new spaces and case studies, and related conversations; with
the intention of stimulating innovation and inspiration in the sector. The tour
allows delegates to make choices to attend the area and sessions likely to be
most interesting for them.
To stay up to date with information and opportunities, visit
www.creativeconference.co.za
Tickets now available at www.webtickets.co.za
The ACT | UJ Arts & Culture Conference is presented by
the Arts & Culture Trust, UJ Arts & Culture and British Council Connect
ZA, with support from the SAMRO Foundation, Pro Helvetia and Business and Arts
South Africa (BASA); and media partner Classicfeel magazine. The conference
will run from March 8 to 10, based at the University of Johannesburg (UJ).
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