Golden Thread Gallery is launching a series of events that will encompass webinars, talks and workshops, all focussed on widening participation within the arts sector and supported by the Community Foundation NI New Needs fund. Our first events are a series of three online discussion sessions. hosted by our New Needs intern Esther Andare.
The discussions will explore what improvements are needed in striving for more inclusivity and engagement for people from a Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic background in the Arts – from visual art to dance, theatre, music, performance, photography, literature and beyond.
Our first discussion on 14th November is aimed at individuals of colour or who identify as part of a minority ethnic community, to discuss their personal experiences as audience members. It aims to create a space for a candid conversation to cover topics including:
- The current state of diversity within the arts and Esther’s personal experiences
- A discussion about possible strategies and best practices to increase inclusivity and community engagement
- The term ‘BAME’ itself, and how it is used to group minorities
We will ask: ‘What should art galleries and organisations do and have in place to make you (Black, Asian and minority ethnic people) feel welcomed and encouraged to visit galleries?’
Future Sessions
Session 2 is aimed at Arts Organisations and will take place on Tuesday 24th November at 2pm. Seema Manchanda will lead the discussion of how organisations are currently addressing diversity.
Session 3 is aimed at both Arts Organisations and Individuals, to combine the learning from the previous sessions and explore new tactics to increase diversity in the arts. It will take place on Thursday 10th December at 2pm.
The gallery is keen on having these discussions openly to encourage different voices and perspectives to be heard.
The sessions will all take place via Zoom, and last approx an hour. Please email [email protected] to book your place to join the discussions, or for any queries.
Supported by the Community Foundation NI New Needs Fund.
