The WRU launched its first artist in residence – Welsh poet, author and scriptwriter Owen Sheers – last year in conjunction with the Arts Council and WRU’s Group Chief Executive Roger Lewis will join the Chair of the Arts Council of Wales Dai Smith today to review the exciting project and discuss the links between art and sport in Wales.
The conference will review how best to engage hard-to-reach communities in the arts, including how to connect with your audience, colleagues and peers online and discussions of how the lasting legacy of the Cultural Olympiad projects will affect communities.
WRU Group Chief Executive, Roger Lewis, added: “We are delighted to welcome the Arts Council of Wales to the Millennium Stadium where we can build on our working relationship and partnership launched last year when we announced the first ever artist in residency project and the appointment of the renowned Welsh novelist, playwright and poet, Owen Sheers.
“Mixing art and sport is a stimulating proposition, and Owen’s appointment has most certainly facilitated cultural excellence through linking the arts and sport, as well as attracting new audiences.”
Dai Smith, Chair, Arts Council of Wales said: “Beyond the Obvious’ will be an inspirational showcase of how the arts can transcend physical and mental boundaries in all walks of life. I look forward to speaking at the Conference and sharing views on how we present a modern, confident and diverse image of Wales to audiences across the nation.”
Other seminar themes include how the Arts Council of Wales wants to further the work of the arts for all and address barriers and can a better understanding of audiences and visitors lead to the opportunity to take greater risks artistically.
Minister for Housing, Regeneration and Heritage, Huw Lewis said: “The arts have always played an incredibly important role in Welsh life but in these difficult financial times, all the evidence suggests people need the arts even more. Not only do the arts entertain us and comfort us, they also inspire us, and help to build skills and generate jobs.
“This is why despite a challenging budget; we limited the reduction to ACW’s budget to 4.6% over three years, compared to 20% over four years in England. In return, the arts sector needs to demonstrate that it is making a real impact in terms of people’s wellbeing, reaching out to new audiences, educating and inspiring young people – especially disadvantaged young people; and nurturing talent and promoting excellence.
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The Arts Council of Wales conference will provide us with an opportunity to explore these issues, and exchange ideas and best practice so that we can continue to make a significant positive contribution to Welsh life.”
