International artist Ian Berry and ceramics designer Keith Brymer Jones will be keynote speakers at a creative arts conference at the University of Huddersfield.

Huddersfield-born Ian, who creates amazing artworks in denim, and Keith, a renowned potter, will speak at ‘Building Connections’, a Shape North conference on creative education on Friday September 13.

The aim is for artists, educationalists and students to celebrate, collaborate and drive positive change.

Stephanie Bartholet, from Shape North, said: “This unique event will bring together experts from the arts, culture and education sectors to celebrate existing practice and discuss the future of creative education and how we can work together to improve provision for everyone in the region.

“Delegates will hear inspirational keynote speeches from renowned artists Ian Berry and Keith Brymer Jones, both investing their time to share their expertise and passion and contribute to the discussions about creative practice with local partners and organisations.”

 

 

The focus of the day will be on ensuring that creative education continues to be recognised as a vital part of children’s development.

Despite the current economic challenges, Shape North has built strong partnerships with a wealth of local and national arts practitioners and cultural organisations, such as Royal Ballet and Opera and Crafts Council, building opportunities for their expertise to be brought into the area to grow the cultural offer for Kirklees.

Delegates will be able to attend a range of inspirational workshops and talks, delivered by creative practitioners, academics in the School of Arts and Humanities at the University of Huddersfield and national organisations.

Stephanie added: “Looking ahead, we are eager to ensure that children and communities receive the best possible opportunities to develop their creative skills which are crucial to their personal and social growth.

“As an organisation we actively work to keep conversations going between educators, artists, organisations and local authorities to keep the arts as a priority.

“We expect the event’s powerful discussions to lead to positive actions that will shape the future of creative education in Kirklees and beyond.”

The conference runs from 9.30am-3.30pm and a few tickets are still available HERE.