SA: ACT to host Arts and Culture Research Unit symposium on 12 September

The symposium is a groundbreaking event where South African arts, culture, hospitality, and tourism professionals and executives converge to create an extraordinary conversation that ignites pragmatic plans for economic connections and innovation in this cross-industry event.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of the Swiss Hotel School in Ferndale, Randburg, this year’s symposium features thematic panel discussions by industry heavyweights from the arts and culture industry, universities, fashion, tourism, and hospitality industries, including hotel chain executives, South African brand leaders, local artists, and economic strategists. Attendees will be immersed in a day of creative economic conversations and modelling, followed by a curated night market that showcases the best of South Africa’s cultural and culinary delights, brimming with live entertainment, designer art products, fashion, music, gourmet food, craft gin and beer, and local wines.

“The primary objectives of the Creative Web Symposium 2024 are to foster meaningful dialogue on and pragmatic approaches to integrating South African arts and culture into broader economic, social, and policy contexts, and to spotlight success stories of research and commercialisation within the creative industries,” ACT CEO Jessica Denyschen said, adding that the event would delve into innovative financing and business strategies for arts and culture initiatives, strengthening networks between researchers, practitioners, and policymakers in the process.

Four key themes will guide the symposium’s discussions include Innovation in Arts and Culture Policies and Practices, Commercialisation of Research, Sustainable Financing and Commercial Business Models and Building Networks and Collaborations.

The University of Johannesburg’s College of Business and Economics associate professor Peter Baur said: “As we continue to explore the intersection of culture, business, and innovation, the Creative Web Symposium is a vital platform for fostering collaborations that drive economic growth. By harnessing the synergies between arts, culture, and tourism, we can create sustainable and impactful business models that reflect the vibrancy of South Africa’s creative economy.”

The Swiss Hotel School South Africa director Stephen Hickmore said partnering with arts and culture is essential for the hospitality industry to enhance guest experiences and strengthen community ties. “By integrating local South African arts and culture, hospitality businesses can differentiate themselves and increase guest satisfaction, especially with overseas guests. Attendance at this event is pivotal in establishing stronger links between arts and culture, individual artists, and the broad hospitality industry,” he said.

The symposium will be a hybrid event, allowing both in-person and online attendance from anywhere in the world with limited tickets available.

Tickets to the symposium can be purchased here.