Open Space Events
Knowledge and Networking for artists, activists, community organisers and academics.
Collective Encounters’ Open Spaces are participant-led events where the agenda and discussion are driven by those in the room. At the beginning of the event guest speakers introduce key ideas, principles and practices behind the theme and offer provocations for discussion. There is an opportunity to ask questions and start thinking critically around the subject at hand. In the second part, we set the agenda together and participants are able to move freely between conversations, network and learn together. Each event is designed to address issues that are relevant to using the arts as a tool for change during a period of global uncertainty, stark inequality and climate crisis.
Art, Change and Public Good – Open Space, SepT 2025
Ashleigh Nugent
Isabelle Kirkham
the vacuum cleaner AKA James Leadbitter
Previous Open Space events
Alternative Hierarchies in Arts Organisations
Creativity, Archives and Social Justice
Creative Approaches to Conflict Resolution
Creativity as a Research Tool
Reaching Excluded Communities
Ethics and Theatre from Lived Experience
In addition to our public programme of Open Space events we offer bespoke packages to organisations looking for participatory and democratic approaches to organising meetings, forums and community consultation or research events. If you’re looking to commission an open space event contact marianne@collective-encounters.org.uk
Collective Encounters has facilitated two Open Space meetings for us which have been a great success. They have been welcoming and collaborative events which have brought together staff, students and community members for meaningful and creative discussion. This way of working is very much in line with CSR’s values. As well as benefiting from the content of the meetings, our members have found it valuable to learn about Open Space methodology and its potential.– Dr Victoria Foster, Edge Hill University
