This one-day event brings together thinkers and managers from arts and cultural organisations, academia and business to explore business models in independent arts venues and performing arts organisations. Combining high profile keynotes with practical workshops and time for shared sensemaking, this event will give arts leaders and managers an opportunity to step back and ask what innovative business models are emerging in the sector, what is shaping change, and what models their own organisation might develop.

This event is part of Creative Lenses, a four-year cross-European action research project which aims to strengthen and develop the business capacity and sustainability of European cultural and arts organisations.

Programme

The day will comprise stimulating panel discussions, talks and hands-on workshops where delegates can engage with a range of topics such as how to make the best use of data, or the challenges and opportunities for small arts organisations.

• Visit the website for the full programme

Confirmed speakers include: Julie Aldridge (Arts Marketing Association), Catherine Bunting (Everyday Participation), Stefan Haefliger (Cass Business School), Francesca Sanderson (Nesta), Giovanni Schiuma (University of Basilicata), Mary-Alice Stack (Creative United), David Crow (Camberwell, Chelsea, Wimbledon at University of the Arts London), Andy Hamflett (AAM Consultancy), Lucy Kimbell (University of the Arts London), Robin Norton-Hale (OperaUPClose), Birgitta Persson (Trans Europe Halles), Adam Thorpe (Central Saint Martins at University of the Arts London).

Who is it for?

As well as researchers and academics, this event will be of interest to small to medium, not-for-profit arts organisations including venues, companies and festivals.

Why does it matter?

Art centres and performing arts organisations are under pressure, especially in the context of austerity reducing public sector funding. Creative Lenses will produce and share know-how and will support arts venues in developing new business models and new ways of engaging audiences and managing their resources, enabling them to contribute to societal and cultural change. Through three phases of work, Creative Lenses will explore current practice, develop and test new models, and synthesise and communicate learning.