A ground breaking event will empower Black and Brown creatives by addressing systemic barriers that limit representation in the UK’s creative industry.
Despite their vital contributions, only 4.8% hold senior roles, and they face a 23% earnings gap compared to their peers, underscoring the urgent need for equity in the arts findings suggest. The All Shades of Brown Creative Conference will take place on Thursday, 27th February 2025, from 10am to 5pm, at The Venue, De Montfort University (DMU), Leicester.
Organised by Opal22 Arts and Edutainment, this ground breaking event aims to challenge disparities in the creative industry by empowering underrepresented voices and foster a more inclusive creative community.
Tara Munroe, Creative Director at Arts and Edutainment organisation, Opal22:
“We’re so excited to kick off the conversation! Our first-ever conference is bringing together an amazing mix of creative professionals to lead workshops, stalls, exhibitions, and performances.
“You’ll get to hear from inspiring artists like Jeneafer Jean-Charles MBE, known for her award-winning performances on Black identity, Christopher Samuels, a multidisciplinary artist blending social and disability activism into his work, and Art Reach known for Journeys Festival and Impact Network for Creatives, who will be providing 15-minute surgeries to aid creative practitioners seeking advice on their creative journeys.”
The conference will provide Black and Brown creatives with a unique platform to engage with industry experts, forge significant connections, and acquire practical tools for advancement and achievement.
The event will highlight keynote speakers such as Pogus Caesar, a globally acclaimed artist, activist, and archival photographer, alongside Gaylene Gould, a cultural strategist, curator, and activist who has spent the past three decades championing diversity and equity within the arts sector.
Participants will engage in a dynamic program aimed at inspiration, featuring panel discussions on crucial topics such as accessibility in creative sectors, environmental sustainability, mentorship, and funding approaches. They will benefit from interactive workshops that provide practical tools and guidance on funding applications, career advancement, and manoeuvring through the creative field. Additionally, art showcases will highlight the exuberant creativity of up-and-coming and local artists in an exhilarating exhibition displaying a variety of works from across the Midlands.
Attendees are invited to get involved at The Venue, De Montfort University, Leicester, for an inspiring day of creativity and connection. Tickets are just £20, with concessions available for students, seniors, and attendees with accessibility needs.
www.opal22.co.uk
