Arts & Culture Conference to explore creative currencies

Thought leaders in the creative sector will gather for an exciting knowledge exchange, with industry gem Mike van Graan as MC. Focusing on commercial and trade aspects of cultural and artistic endeavour in South Africa, on the continent and globally, it is hoped that the wide range of delegates will be inspired and educated, and use the opportunity to grow personal networks.

A forum to debate and interrogate aspects of the 'Creative Economy'

"It has become vitally important for the stakeholders of the artistic and cultural sectors to debate matters of mutual concern in an unbiased, independent and structured environment," said Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) chairperson Melissa Goba. "The second ACT | UJ Arts & Culture Conference is presented with the hope of improving interrogation into aspects that have an undeniable impact on arts, culture and heritage," she continued.

The three-day conference will kick off with an exciting presentation by UK cultural strategist, John Newbigin, which considers what the 'Creative Economy' actually is. His address will unpack the history of data collection and measurement of the creative industries, as well as how this has successfully been used in various countries. Newbigin will also interrogate how the creative industries have benefited sections of society. Continental perspectives concerning aspects of cultural entrepreneurship will be presented by representatives from Nigeria, Kenya and Ghana; who will also interrogate how governments support, or undermine, the development of the creative industries. A panel comprising South African government officials will discuss their interactions with the creative sector.

During the course of the last decade, the export of South African creative and cultural services to the European Union has more than doubled. The export of creative goods has, however, remained largely stagnant and we import substantially more creative goods and creative services than we export. These and other insights form part of an EU-funded research project co-ordinated by the Visual Arts Network of South Africa, the British Council and Arterial Network South Africa; which will also be presented on the first day.

Networking, engagement, exploration, information

Other slots (which include breakaway sessions) will facilitate engagement around entrepreneurship, ownership of content (copyright and the divide between developed nations and third-world countries), how useful the South African creative industries are (as part of public policy) and the changing roles of public cultural entities, and the role and regulation of stimulating local content development. A cocktail networking event will coincide with a preview of Johann Louw's exhibition.

On day two, presenters will embark on an exploration of places and spaces, probing synergies between cities and arts and culture, as well as the role of festivals and trade fairs and their economic dynamics. Presentations will focus on trends and opportunities for cultural practitioners. Practical examples of advertising and marketing will fall under the spotlight, looking especially at how to improve market penetration and expanding client and audience bases. Information will be shared regarding residencies, curating across borders (geographical and sectoral), development in the areas of cultural entrepreneurship and business acumen, with an introduction to exciting digital possibilities.

The final day of the conference will offer extensive information regarding digital and online technologies and how these are breaking boundaries in an ever-increasing, globalised, and inter-connected world. The digital creation and delivery of content will be interrogated, as well as possibilities for relationships' and audiences' expansion utilising the vast range of online opportunities, culminating in an exploration of how the internet and digital spaces could be employed specifically for income generation.

High-profile presenters and partners

Presenters include the likes of educator, entrepreneur and activist Max Kaizen, new media specialist Mark Kaigwa, Mhlanganisi Masoga from the Department of Trade and Industry, Tayengwa Masawi from the Industrial Development Corporation, SAMRO's Andre Le Roux, Avril Joffe of Culture Arts and Jobs, techno guru Dave Duarte, BASA CEO Michelle Constant, David Krut of David Krut Projects, Baylon Sandri of SMAC Gallery, curator MJ Daroll, gaming expert Pippa Tshabalala and business and play strategist Prof Elaine Rumboll.

A second edition of the SA Arts and Culture Listing, an up-to-date national database of industry stakeholders, will be released at this year's conference. Media partners SAFM, Mail & Guardian and Classicfeel magazine add additional strategic marketing opportunities. The organisers further wish to acknowledge the invaluable support of Santam, Business and Arts South Africa (BASA), the SAMRO Foundation and Distell Foundation.

The Conference will take place 6-8 August 2013 at UJ Arts Centre, Kingsway Campus, University of Johannesburg. R750 per delegate includes access to all presentations, entertainment and refreshments. For more information, registration, or to download the conference brochure, go to www.act.org.za. Registration closes on 26 July 2013.