'Breaking Boundaries' is an inspirational showcase of how the arts can transcend physical and mental boundaries in all walks of life.
ACW is pleased to return to Aberystwyth Arts Centre again this year and welcome this year's speakers which include: John Holden (Demos), New York artist, Brian Tolle, Minister for Heritage, Rhodri Glyn Thomas, AM, and Gwyn L Williams, 2008 Cultural Olympiad Programmer for Wales.
John Holden is Head of Culture at 'Demos', the think tank for 'everyday democracy' and a visiting Professor at City University, London. At the ACW Conference, Holden will draw on Demos's work on future trends, and on the role of culture in international relations. He will also examine what globilisation will mean for the arts, what the role of the arts is in society in the twenty first century and how arts organisations can best prepare themselves to meet the future.
This will be Rhodri Glyn Thomas's first speech at the ACW annual conference, and he will share his thoughts on the arts in Wales after nearly one year as Heritage Minister.
Other seminar themes include an open space session, which gives delegates the opportunity to create their own discussions; 'Theatre for the very young', led by Creative Wales artist, Sarah Argent; 'Fresh Innovations - BME arts and interculturalism in Wales'; 'Euro-regional and International Cultural co-operation' and 'Rapporteur's Report' by award-winning novelist, Caryl Lewis.
Dai Smith, Chair of the Arts Council of Wales, said: 'This year's ACW Conference is all about 'Breaking Boundaries' and I am delighted that we have such a variety of stimulating and thought provoking seminars that will break through a few boundaries themselves. We are also pleased to welcome Heritage Minister, Rhodri Glyn Thomas, as a keynote speaker. The ACW Annual Conference is an excellent opportunity for arts professionals and members of the public who are passionate about the arts to get together, share ideas and learn more about the arts in Wales and beyond.'