Council seeking input for Arts and Culture Strategy

Representatives are being sought from arts and cultural venues, drama and performing arts, visual arts, participatory/community arts, heritage and museums, individual artists and practitioners, community festivals, non-Council led Festivals and Events in region (ie those eligible for Tier 2 Festivals funding), music and literature that will sit on Co Design Group which will operate in an advisory capacity and will fulfil its function with the completion of the Arts & Culture Strategy (2017 – 2022).

John Kerr, Arts and Culture Manager with Derry City and Strabane District Council explained: “The Strategy will build upon the legacy of 2013 UK City of Culture by supporting a culture of collaboration and articulating a clear direction of travel for a strong and ambitious arts and culture sector within the North West. The Strategy will reflect and support the ambitions of Council and its partners in the pursuit of world class designations such as European City of Culture status.”

As part of the process Council has appointed an external agent to compile the Arts and Cultural Strategy for the Council area. The agent will be charged with developing an evidenced based Arts and Culture Strategy focused on delivery against relevant outcomes identified in the Community Plan and the local area plans, and also ensure it is based on a successful co-design process.

John Kerr explained that representatives of the Co Design Group will be required to meet with the agent and Council officers on a regular basis to monitor the progress of the strategy compilation against the defined Scope of Works. It is envisaged that the Co Design process will commence May 2017 and conclude September 2017 with the completion of the Arts & Culture Strategy.

To sign up or nominate someone to be represented on the Co Design Process click on the following link to view the terms of reference and the form at www.derrystrabane.com/Services/Arts-and-Culture. Please note that the closing date for nominations is Wednesday, 10 May.

John Kerr concluded: “This is a fantastic opportunity for those working or with an interest in the local arts and culture sector to have an input into the Council strategy for the years ahead. Not only will their input help us prioritise the needs of the sector, but it will allow us to share experiences and deliver a Strategy that is achievable and in keeping with our Community Plan for the Derry City and Strabane District Council area.”

He said it is anticipated that information sessions will be held in the coming weeks to provide the sector with more information on the Co Design Process.

Anyone who needs any further information or clarification can speak to John directly at the Council on [email protected]. Tel 028 71 253253.