Initiated by 'Creative Skills' the mind-mapping exercise at Tate St Ives was an unprecedented opportunity for representatives of a number of different sectors to come together and discuss the state of visual art in Cornwall today. 

Representatives of commercial galleries: Lemon Street Gallery, Artonomy and the Salt Gallery exchanged strategic ideas with artists, artist curators and the directors and staff of Tate St Ives and Newlyn Art Gallery. Representatives from Cornwall College, UCF, the County Council creative unit and www.artcornwall.org were also present.

 

The initial mind mapping exercise was carried out in-front of the big semi-circular window in the lower gallery. Delegates were asked to imagine a scenario where it could be said that:  'Cornwalls contemporary visual arts are thriving' , and to consider what would be needed for this to be true. This brainstorming process was recorded on a large sheet of paper for posterity (see picture).

 

 

 

 

This facilitated session then led on to smaller group discussions, and then a bigger final meeting in which a number of hot topics were discussed and some strong views aired. 

 

It is hoped that this was the first of a number of such meetings relating to a visual arts strategy for Cornwall, which may be taken forward further if Creative Skills' current application for a dedicated post is successful.

 

 

The mind-mapping event took place on December 11th 2006