OFFSHOOT Symposium

Join the University of Salford, Royal Horticultural Society and Open Eye Gallery for a one-day symposium exploring how collaboration across the arts, environment, higher education and public sectors can create ambitious, meaningful and place-based cultural projects.

Inspired by the OFFSHOOT partnership, the day will share learning from a multi-year collaboration that has embedded artists at RHS Garden Bridgewater through long-term residencies, research and community engagement.

Together, the partners have commissioned four artists , engaged more than 400 participants in creating new work, presented five exhibitions across three North West venues , delivered a series of public talks with industry experts, and reached audiences of more than 500,000 people . What to expect

The symposium is designed for artists, commissioners, academics, funders, cultural organisations, environmental partners and public sector leaders — whether you are developing commissions, shaping policy, undertaking research or delivering creative and environmental programmes. Through panel discussions and facilitated roundtables we will explore:

● Commissioning artists beyond traditional cultural venues

● Building long-term partnerships across culture, nature and higher education

● Broadening access to arts, heritage and the natural environment

● Demonstrating the impact of creative work on people and place

● Connecting research, cultural practice and the environment

● Sharing practical learning, experience and best practice

Attendance is free, but places are limited and booking is required.

OFFSHOOT is a collaboration between University of Salford Art Collection, RHS Garden Bridgewater and Open Eye Gallery Liverpool and is generously supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.

Entry:

Entry to the New Adelphi Building is fully accessible with step-free access and double automatic doors.

Navigating:

There are entrance doors on all four sides of the building. You’ll find the Box Office reception desk towards the centre of the building, arrive here to sign-in or to speak to one of our team.

The main theatre is on the ground floor. Where breakout spaces are upstairs, there are lifts and stairs available.

Facilities:

There are toilets nearby on the ground floor, behind the Box Office, including level access to an accessible toilet. There are spaces to rest and purchase refreshments. The theatre is fully seated.

Mobility:

We can accommodate six wheelchair users and their companions in the Theatre auditorium. If you have limited mobility or are accompanied by a guide dog, we can allocate you a seat with step-free access and extra room, on the left or right-hand side of the stalls. For any of these options, please select the 'accessible' ticket.

Rest/quiet spaces

The New Adelphi Exhibition Gallery is located on the ground floor and offers a quiet environment with current nature-themed show Carry the Clouds…