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Creative Island, Portsmouth Creates and Southampton Forward are pleased to announce the first Solent Cultural Forum, taking place on Thursday April 3rd 2025, from 11am- 2pm at Southampton Football Club.
Designed as an opportunity to connect, share and better understand the context and current dynamics across the Solent, this is an informal gathering of all those working in and contributing to the culture of our region. Given the speed and scale of changes happening with Local Authority reorganisation, Devolution, the next Arts Council NPO process and recent shift in Museum Development it feels increasingly important that we make time to connect with and better understand the work and ambitions of those around us.
Alongside the three organisations, speakers from the three local authorities include Councillor Lorna Feilker, Councillor Steve Pitt and Councillor Julie Jones-Evans.
Attendees will gain insights into what devolution means for the region and its cultural sector. Arts Council England's Phil Gibby will discuss culture in the devolution landscape, offering reassurance while sharing updates on the spending review, Public Bodies review, and NPO funding. Ginny Graham will present the Solent Cultural Plan, outlining its vision, key principles—including support for creative enterprise, skills, young people, and communities—and how culture can drive destination development.
The event will set the stage for greater collaboration and partnership, inviting the sector to work together, share strengths, and create a more impactful, connected cultural ecosystem across the region.
