Didcot event shines spotlight on South Oxfordshire culture

The Southern Oxfordshire Heritage, Culture, and Creative Industries Symposium returned to Cornerstone Arts Centre in Didcot on March 25, bringing together 30 representatives from museums, theatres, arts organisations, educational institutions, and heritage groups from South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse.

The three-hour event was designed to encourage conversation around improving the arts and culture scene in the region.

Georgina Heritage, cabinet member for communities at South Oxfordshire District Council, said: “It was wonderful to see people coming together again from across the districts.

“The workshops sparked some really insightful discussions, and it’s great to see our creative and cultural community collaborating and supporting one another.”

Sessions focused on sharing best practices in audience development and inclusion.

Workshops and presentations also addressed funding opportunities and reaching new audiences, and collaboration and partnership working.

Helen Pighills, cabinet member for community health and wellbeing at Vale of White Horse District Council, said: “It’s inspiring to see local organisations reconnect and share ideas on audience engagement and inclusive practice.

“Events like this help us strengthen partnerships, reach new audiences, and ensure creativity continues to thrive across the region.”

The symposium was funded through grants from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Arts Council England.

Another event is scheduled for June this year.

For more details please email: cultureandheritage@southandvale.gov.uk.