Belfast conference to examine transforming power of art and architecture Artists, architects, developers, planners and community leaders will meet for the first time in Northern Ireland next month to examine the impact of art and architecture on cities and places. A one-day conference entitled ‘Urban Alchemy: the Transforming Power of Art and Architecture’ will take place on Tuesday September 26th, at the Belfast Waterfront Hall.
The recent launch of Northern Ireland’s first cross-governmental policy on architecture and the built environment, the announcement of major changes in the Public Administration of the region and an investment of £28m by the Department for Social Development in Belfast’s City Centre have all set the scene for this inspirational conference. Recognising this dynamic environment, conference partners, the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Belfast City Council and the Royal Society of Ulster Architects (in association with Perspective Magazine), agreed to schedule this unique event.
Trevor Leaker, President of the Royal Society of Ulster Architects said: “Too often, we accept mediocre architectural design here. Belfast and Northern Ireland are changing rapidly and we need to match the pace of that transformation with some really innovative architecture and public art. It will take boldness and creativity to ensure that we have cities in which people can really enjoy living, working and visiting; this conference will challenge all of us to create better built environments here.”
Delegates attending the conference will hear a range of inspirational speakers, including Sunand Prasad (President Elect of the Royal Institute of British Architects), one of the most engaging and successful architects in the United Kingdom; Maggie Bolt, director of PROJECT, the UK wide scheme to encourage public art; and architects O’Donnell + Tuomey and Arts Team, who are working on the new Lyric Theatre and the refurbishment of the Grand Opera House respectively. Frank McDonald, Environment Editor with the Irish Times will chair the day’s discussions.
In addition, a number of cultural experts will also explore a range of themes such as engaging local communities, re-energising city spaces and regeneration schemes which respect and retain historic character. Findings from the conference will be reported to government to help build on the current momentum for positive change in architecture and the public realm. Conference programme details and on-line booking are available on the Urban Alchemy web pages ( click here ). Download this press release ( PDF or Rich Text )
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