Mapping resources

Exeter visual art resources - 2014 (first draft)

The quick sketch above was prompted by a recent meeting of Exeter visual artists and arts organisations. Called by Exeter Cultural Partnership in collaboration with Visual Arts South West, it was a rare opportunity for this diverse group (which included everyone from self-confessed 'dabblers' to the acting director of Spacex, Nicola Hood) to meet. While there was some inevitable venting of pent-up frustrations, what began to emerge is just how rich this city is in resources, expertise and opportunity.  We currently have one of the highest levels of spending per head on culture of any city in the country. And, while that is likely to diminish, we start from a point of strength.

People talked a lot about what we've lost and what we lack, but I'm amazed, when I think about it, by what we have. I was also really heartened by the voices that called for artists to be confident and ambitious. Like them, I'm all for generating ideas and trusting that resources will follow.