Wayne Hemingway and Sewing Bee quarterfinalist amongst speakers at upcoming symposia in Walsall
British designer Wayne Hemingway MBE, Great British Sewing Bee quarterfinalist Lauren Tedstone and photographer, curator, filmmaker and conceptual artist Dr Pogus Caesar are amongst speakers at a weekend symposium for creatives at The New Art Gallery Walsall this April.
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The symposia, part of Walsall MakerFest Fringe will provide opportunities for creative professionals, artists and makers to connect, share knowledge and explore ideas.
The weekend builds on the inaugural Walsall MakerFest which took place in the town centre in September 2024 and saw 50,000 people enjoy live music, performances, storytelling, workshops and more, celebrating creativity across the borough and region.
The Photography Symposium on Saturday, 12 April will explore how photography captures the past while shaping the present, and the role of digital technology in transforming photographic practices. Speakers include Dr Pogus Caesar, Rachell Smith, Tina Eisen with a keynote from Garry Hunter. The day will be hosted by Walsall-based photographer Andy Kruczek.
The Makers Symposium on Sunday, 13 April will explore how makers balance heritage techniques with contemporary innovation. It will feature Anne Scrimshaw, Oliver Wellings and Lauren Tedstone, with a keynote from designer Wayne Hemingway and hosted by Dr Steve Harding.
Councillor Adrian Andrew, Associate Leader of Walsall Council, said: “Walsall is a hub of creativity, and it’s an exciting time with the Creative Industries Enterprise Centre in the Guildhall due to open next year. Walsall MakerFest and its Fringe events are a fantastic opportunity to bring together creative minds, innovators, and makers to inspire and learn from one another, and ultimately drive innovation in our borough.”
Shine Duggal, Festival Lead, said: “These symposia explore how tradition shapes modern ways of thinking and working, whether through the lens of photography or the hands of makers. In a rapidly evolving world, our creative practices remain deeply rooted in heritage while continuously adapting to new technologies and ideas. Sustainability is key - how do we honour the past while innovating responsibly for the future? This weekend brings together creatives, makers and industry leaders to explore the tension between preserving tradition and redefining what comes next.”
Both events take place from 12-4pm and will include light refreshments. A weekend pass costs £20 (£15 concs), single day tickets £12 (£7.50 concs).
Tickets can be purchased by visiting Eventbrite: eventbrite.co.uk/e/photography-makers-weekend-symposia-tradition-meets-modernity-tickets-1277867047739?aff=oddtdtcreator
