Lead Councillor Wants to Hear From You On The State of the ‘Arts’

Published on: 30 Jun, 2017
Updated on: 30 Jun, 2017

By Jan Todd

What do you think about the arts in Guildford borough? What would make you want to take part in arts activities, or try something new?

Whether you are a resident, an artist, part of a community group, or anyone else with an interest in the arts in Guildford, Guildford Borough Council would like to hear your views on their two new draft strategies – ‘Arts Development’ and ‘Public Art’.

Lead councillor for Heritage and the Arts, Cllr Nikki Nelson-Smith (Con, Christchurch), explained “We want to hear from as many groups and individuals as possible, from professionals and amateurs, to the community and voluntary creative sectors, including anyone who performs, manages, creates, works in, participates in, or just enjoys the arts.

“We would like to find out what you think about arts development provision locally and also get feedback on our draft Arts Development and Public Art Strategies. We are keen to hear from people of all ages – your opinions will help shape future arts development in Guildford so we provide opportunities to meet the needs of our residents, customers and the community”.

The ‘arts’ include performing and visual arts, for example, combined arts, circus arts, craft, dance, fashion and the creative industries, festivals, literature, music and theatre, together with film, media and digital arts and much more.

‘Public art’ is the process of artists working with the local community to develop temporary or permanent pieces of art that are either stand-alone features or integrated into the environment.

Feedback from the consultation will shape and direct the Arts Development Strategy and Public Art Strategy. Both strategies will be available after they have been considered by the council’s Executive in December.

The online survey will be available until 12 noon on Friday, July 28. Respondents have the chance to win a month’s free membership of Guildford Spectrum (up to £50) or tickets for G Live, The Electric Theatre or any performance promoted by Guildford’s Tourist Information Centre, worth up to £50.

To access the survey, visit www.guildford.gov.uk/article/20309/Have-your-say-on-arts-development-and-public-art. Paper copies of the online survey are also available.

There will also be a consultation workshop for people working in, taking part in, or interested in the arts, on Wednesday July 5, from 6pm to 9pm.

For more information about the consultation event, or if you would like a paper copy of the survey, email artsdevelopment@guildford.gov.uk.