Following its inaugural symposium Resonant Terrains posing the question Are festivals the future for contemporary art? b-side presents a second dis

Following its inaugural symposium Resonant Terrains posing the question ‘Are festivals the future for contemporary art?’ b-side presents a second discussion event provoking debate on current issues. This year we take a look at the growing industry of tourism and it’s relationship with the arts – particularly in relation to rural contexts.

b-side welcomed over 80 delegates to the Isle of Portland for b-side’s second Symposium event provoking debate on current issues. ‘The Excursionist’ explored the growing industry of tourism and it’s relationship with the arts exploring the impact of tourism on community, environment and economy and the role art and artists can play. ​Delegates enjoyed two days of provocations, presentations, discussions and artistic interventions including a bus trip to Portland’s premier tourist attraction and an unexpected performance in a graveyard.

For social media highlights and comments by delegates have a look here. Take a look at Flickr for the full visual story here. Or click here to hear some of the discussions that emerged during the symposium. 

Following its inaugural symposium Resonant Terrains posing the question ‘Are festivals the future for contemporary art?’ b-side presents a second discussion event provoking debate on current issues. This year we take a look at the growing industry of tourism and it’s relationship with the arts – particularly in relation to rural contexts.

The Excursionist

How can tourism work for art and art work for tourism?
Exploring the impact of tourism on community, environment and economy and the role art can play. ​

“There is a resurgence in the extent and quality of creative activity in Britain, and no government can stand idly by and ignore the potential this has to uplift the people’s hearts and at the same time to draw in a major economic return to this country.”
– Chris Smith, Creative Britain

Please scroll down the page for list of speakers and for outline schedule and travel/accomodation information

£65 Two day Symposium ticket includes all trips, events and presentations with delicious buffet supper on Thursday night and lunch on Friday.

£30 One day Symposium ticket is for Friday 9 October includes presentation and discussion events and lunch

The Stonehall
Chiswell
Portland, Dorset
DT5 1AP