The arts and culture play an essential role in informing our identities and our sense of place. Our buildings, our streets and our public art determine our mental maps and our perceptions of the place in which we live. And providing opportunities for artists and creative practitioners can contribute directly to its economy and society. At a time when the city of Cambridge and its fringe communities are expanding fast, the CAN conference this year is going to explore in detail how we create our places, and how we can make them better. The conference this year will have something for everyone interested in the arts, and in how to make a city a centre of creativity.
· How do we define sense of place, and how does it connect with civic pride?
· How do we factor culture into the planning process?
· How do we involve younger people in the decisions about place-making?
· How do we make our places healthier to live in?
· How do we nurture creativity and economic growth?
· How can we use gaming to model more exciting urban spaces?
· And how do we create excitement around our night-time economy?
With a keynote address from Professor Flora Samuel, Head of the Department of Architecture at Cambridge University, the conference will also feature distinguished speakers from the arts, academia, local government, and youth organisations. With plenty of opportunities for questions and participation from delegates, the conference will be a stimulating exploration of how creative place-making can change lives.
The prestigious CAN Awards will be presented at 5pm, including awards for the leading Youth Ambassador, the most Innovative Business Leader, the most Innovative Arts organisation, and the person or organisation which has made the biggest Contribution to sense of place.
The conference will be followed by a drink’s reception and live entertainment from leading local musicians.
Don’t miss out!
