Thinking International, Sage Gateshead, 27th June 2018
We are a small organisation with a large reach and firm believers in the value of the arts bringing people, their cultures and places together to combat the slide towards closed borders and protectionism that makes us look inwards and back. We would argue that perhaps our region more than any needs to remain outward looking, drawing on the obvious strengths that we have.
The Brexit we are heading for has not been designed by or even for us. We must remain vigilant. Of course we will navigate our way through, of course we will continue to build relationships. But:
We would suggest not.
The question now is what are we doing about it? And is it enough?
Last June D6 was asked to present at Thinking International at the Sage Gateshead to discuss how arts and heritage organisations can continue working internationally in our current political climate, and how at D6 we hope to continue to produce international projects.
The Brexit we are heading for has not been designed by or even for us. We must remain vigilant. Of course we will navigate our way through, of course we will continue to build relationships. But:
- Will we be more liked as a result of Brexit?
- Have we strengthened our position as cultural partners?
- Have we encouraged the outside world that we are open and welcoming?
We would suggest not.
The question now is what are we doing about it? And is it enough?
Last June D6 was asked to present at Thinking International at the Sage Gateshead to discuss how arts and heritage organisations can continue working internationally in our current political climate, and how at D6 we hope to continue to produce international projects.