In collaboration with the University of Huddersfield, the IOU Symposium returns 15 July 2026 to consider what an effective cultural ecosystem can be.        

Across the day we’re going to hear from a range of speakers on specific policy initiatives designed to support the development of cultural ecosystems.

Artists will be sharing how their practices have been influenced by the exploration of archives, institutional relationships and the passing of time.

Arts organisations will be considering their roles in place-based work and the wider community of artists and their needs.

We’re delighted to announce the following speakers as part of this.

• Jacob Dafydd Ellis - Director for External  Relations and Culture, Office of the Future Generations Commissioner
• Kedisha Coakley - Artist
• Kelly Loughlin - Artist
• Sho Shibata - Director, Outdoor Arts UK
• Dr Susan Croft - Director, Unfinished Histories
• Tahir Shah - Culture, Heritage and Sport Policy  Officer, West Yorkshire Combined Authority

  Sign up for the symposium at the link below or contact IOU for more information.