Leeds played host last week to a seminar organised by LiKE, a European cultural network bringing together arts and culture professionals from local authorities across Europe, based in Leeds’ twin city Lille. The seminar focused on how the arts are funded, helping delegates to think much more extensively and widely about how to raise income commercially, as well as how to fundraise more effectively. From gastropubs to rate relief, a wide variety of ideas were discussed and speakers from across the UK and Europe came together to share their knowledge and experience. Delegates were also invited to visit some of Leeds’ exciting arts venues, including the West Yorkshire Playhouse, Duke Studios, Leeds Print Workshop, Leeds Art Gallery and the Art Hostel.
Margaux Rochet, Public & Institutional Relations manager at LiKE expressed: “Leeds is an impressive example of diversity, cultural vibrancy and resilience. LiKE could not have been happier with being hosted here. The diverse range of initiatives with regard to the funding of culture and the arts is impressive too. From audience development to investing in a base of assets, cultural actors demonstrated a strong entrepreneurial mind-set and dedication to keep the quality and originality at the heart of their developments.” The LiKE network will be publishing a report drawing on the findings that came out of these discussions. The report will be available on the LiKE website.
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