The APDIG was delighted to host two knowledge-sharing events in June 2019 as part of its inquiry into the visual arts as a global force with the Contemporary Visual Arts Network.

On Monday 20th June 2019, the two organisations brought together over forty artists, academics and industry figures at the Slade School of Fine Art at University College London. The workshop explored the key themes being investigated by the inquiry, especially the relationship between art schools and the gallery sector. The importance of a well-developed creative education system was highlighted by all participants, especially the importance of developing a strong cross-sector approach from the primary level upwards, and addressing the skills gap.  

Participants were delighted to be joined by Kieren Reed, Slade Director, who introduced the work of the School in fostering an atmosphere of collaboration across the sector.  

A second event was held the following week on Tuesday 18th June at BALTIC39 in Newcastle with the kind support of the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art and chaired by the Centre's Director, Sarah Munro. Over twenty leading creative figures from the North of England were in attendance, bringing together organisations ranging from the Liverpool Biennial, to the University of Leeds, to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park. The roundtable discussed a range of issues affecting the creative industry sector, as well as developing a number of recommendations aimed at improving the long-term health of the visual arts and the prospects for future growth.

An open call for evidence is open until Friday 28th July 2019.

The matters arising will feed into the APDIG’s on-going policy work and engagement with government. The final report will be launched in Parliament in Autumn 2019.