Spark 2021 aims to turn creative talk into creative action, and galvanise our creative business community around a common purpose; recovery, promotion, and growth of the sector.

Online delegates will be introduced to just some of the exciting organisations, projects, and initiatives in the area – and share information about their work and plans for the future. The programme, spread over five days, is structured around five core themes; voice, placemaking, pathfinding, engagement, and innovation, and will include presentations, discussions, workshops, networking opportunities, and performances and exhibitions. 

The running order of the programme is now confirmed, which you can explore below. We will continue to add further detail to the sessions, including speakers and opportunities to get involved over the coming weeks – but for now, book your ticket, download the app, create your profile, build your agenda, and take part in the online discussions.

To attend Spark, simply register on Whova and download the app via the link in your confirmation email.

Registration is now open!

Register now on Whova

1. Do I have to download Whova app to my mobile device to join the Symposium?

No. You can download the desktop version to your computer. 

2. Why are you running the event during lockdown?

Having spoken to member of our creative community over the past few months, we know that there is online meeting fatigue and that it’s a crowded marketplace for online conferences, but we also know that there is high demand for a local event that could attract a global audience. We know it will be challenging to generate the same buzz and energy we created during Spark 2020 – but we believe it can still add a huge amount of value to the people who live, work and visit Warwick District. We have so much to share and talk about, and we not going to let a little thing like a global pandemic get in the way!

3. Why are you running the event over five days?

We’re all feeling a bit worn out by online meetings and conferences, so this will give delegates and speakers the opportunity to dip in and out of the symposium and not be stuck in front of a screen for long periods of time. We hope it will provide a much more enjoyable experience.

4. Networking was such a big part of Spark 2020, how will that feature in the online event?

We’re keen to provide a range of online networking opportunities throughout the week. Like you, we’ve attended some amazing (and awful) online networking sessions over lockdown, so we are in the process of exploring various solutions. But rest assured, networking will feature heavily throughout the week.

5. Do I have to attend all of the events and activities?

No, but you are very welcome to! The sessions will be designed for a range of different audiences – so simply select and attend the ones that are of interest.

6. When will you announce the programme and when can I book sessions?

We hope to announce the full programme Monday 1 February at which point you can book. It’s likely that some sessions will have attendee numbers capped as to encourage discussion and debate. Others will be open to all. More on this follow.

7. Can I get involved?

If you have an idea for a session or some sort of artistic intervention, get in touch with Johnathan Branson on Johnathan.branson@warwickdc.gov.uk.