Saturday, November 18, 2006

'The City Is Ours?' - organised by Matt Stokes


THE CITY IS OURS?
Wednesday 22nd November, 7-8pm
George Scott Barber Shop, The Side, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1PR

THE CITY IS OURS? is the first in a series of three events, which explore Newcastle’s heritage and treasures by considering their connection to 'alternative' aspects and social networks of the city.

Over the past 10 years, the urban fabric of Newcastle/Gateshead has undergone radical changes. As a consequence of these transformations, our relationship to the city has also altered and adapted.

This introductory event brings together key people from within the city who influence and manage the changing landscape and cultural climate; from the regeneration of our surroundings and the commissioning public art, to the collection of artwork and programming for galleries/museums. Through informal discussion, it will examine issues of ‘public-ness’ and question how these activities shape the identity of both the place and its people.

Panel members include;

Elisabetta Fabrizi, Curator, Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, Gateshead

Julie Milne, Curator, Laing Gallery, Newcastle upon Tyne

Matthew Lennon, Public Arts Officer, Newcastle City Council

Paul Rubenstein, Director of Policy and Assistant Chief Executive, Newcastle City Council

Peter Rogers, PhD graduate of Newcastle University, and currently Research Associate at the School of Environment and Development, Manchester Metropolitan University, whose interests focus on urban and cultural sociology

The evening will be punctuated with light entertainment provided by the Abacus Barbershop Quartet, and refreshments will be available.

The event is FREE, but due to limited capacity booking is strongly advised. To reserve a place or find out more please email socialspaces@hotmail.co.uk


This event has been organised by Matt Stokes in association with the BBC2 series by Simon Schama, 'The Power of Art'. It is one of ten ‘Art-Tripper’ commissions taking place in cities across the UK, funded and coordinated by Arts Council England.


Coming soon …

A 1000 Days in Sodom
Metal music culture and the paintings of John Martin
Wednesday 29th November, 7-8pm
Pre-Raphaelite Room, Laing Art Gallery, New Bridge Street, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 8AG


The High Seas
Maritime heritage and surfing the Northeast coast
Thursday 14th December, 7-8pm
Trinity House, Broad Chare, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, NE1 3DQ


Both forthcoming events are also FREE, but booking is advised. To find out more or to reserve a place please email socialspaces@hotmail.co.uk