Creative Tunbridge Wells: A Creative Sector Catalyst

We’re the hub for Tunbridge Wells’ creative scene, connecting artists, businesses, and opportunities to spark innovation and growth.

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CTW - What is this? — Exhibition View, ‘Microworld: Amelia’ – Created by artists Genetic Moo and produced by The Amelia in partnership with Lumen Arts Projects 2023.

A Cultural Compact, as envisioned by Arts Council England, is a strategic framework designed to boost the creative sector through stronger partnerships and collaborative initiatives. Creative Tunbridge Wells is proud to be at the forefront of this movement, as the first town to embrace this innovative model.

Our core mission is to champion and actively support the thriving creative industries within our community. We serve as a dynamic force for positive change, fostering strategic collaborations that unlock the full potential of Tunbridge Wells’ creative talent.

Creative Tunbridge Wells operates as an independent yet deeply collaborative partnership within the creative sector. By working closely with key stakeholders, including Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, we are uniquely positioned to advocate for and advance the creative and cultural interests of our town.

As one of a growing number of Cultural Compacts across England, and the first in any town, we invite you to join us in shaping an even more vibrant and dynamic creative landscape for Tunbridge Wells. Explore our website to discover how you can get involved and be part of this exciting initiative.

Our mission is to drive the strategic growth and success of Tunbridge Wells’ creative sector by providing comprehensive support, fostering collaborative opportunities, and acting as a strong advocate. We work in partnership with a diverse range of stakeholders, including creative businesses, community groups, freelancers, local and regional government, and cultural organizations.

Collaboration is fundamental to Creative Tunbridge Wells’ approach. Our key partners include Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, Kent County Council, Royal Tunbridge Wells Together, Applause Rural Touring, and Arts Council England. Within the local council, we maintain close ties with both the Culture Team and the Economic Development Team to ensure alignment and maximize our impact.

We are dedicated to serving Tunbridge Wells’ vibrant creative community, encompassing artists, entrepreneurs, and creative professionals across all disciplines.

Tunbridge Wells boasts a thriving creative scene, rich with talented artists, performers, writers, and digital creators. Creative Tunbridge Wells is here to support this local talent, drive innovation, and foster collaboration through a diverse range of initiatives.

We do this in 4 key ways:

Convenors

As Convenors, we unify diverse stakeholders within the Tunbridge Wells creative ecosystem, fostering collaboration and community. Our role is pivotal in creating a vibrant cultural network where wellbeing and quality of life are enhanced through the power of culture.

Champions

As Champions our aim is to elevate the profile of the Tunbridge Wells’ creative sector both regionally and nationally. We celebrate and publicise the achievements and innovations within our local creative communities, advocating for recognition and support to further their reach and impact.

Facilitators

As Facilitators, we streamline the growth of the region’s creative industries by enabling investments and supporting the development of essential infrastructure. Our focus is on making the creative sector more accessible and sustainable, aiding organisations and practitioners to thrive.

Catalysts

Acting as Catalysts, we ignite innovation and development within the creative and cultural industries. We are committed to unleashing the full potential of our creative communities, connecting talent with opportunities, and fostering a nurturing environment for cultural creation and expression.

Advertising and Marketing

In the vibrant world of creative industries, advertising and marketing is where creativity meets commercial strategy. They bring brands to life through innovative campaigns, blending art, technology, and persuasive narratives.

Architecture

As a cornerstone of the creative industries, architecture marries artistic vision with practical utility, shaping the spaces we live and work in. From awe-inspiring skyscrapers to eco-friendly homes, architects blend cultural expression with functional design.

Craft and Visual Arts

At the heart of the creative industries, crafts and visual arts celebrate the tactile and the tangible. Artists and artisans create unique works, ranging from sculptures and paintings to textiles and pottery, each piece a testament to personal expression and skill.

Design and Fashion

The design and fashion realms are the epitome of style meeting functionality within the creative industries. From sleek consumer products to cutting-edge fashion collections, these fields blend aesthetics with innovation, setting trends and defining cultural narratives.

Film, TV, Video, Radio, and Photography

The storytelling power of film, TV, video, radio, and photography is a driving force in the creative industries. These mediums captivate audiences worldwide, combining visual artistry, compelling narratives, and technological innovation.

IT, Software and Computer Services

IT and software services are not just about functionality; they encompass the imaginative worlds of gaming, VR, and AR. This sector blends technical prowess with creative storytelling, and virtual world building.

Museums, Galleries, and Libraries

The Museums, Galleries, and Libraries sector serves as a custodian of culture and heritage. By preserving artefacts and showcasing collections, it connects communities with their past and fosters lifelong learning.

Music and Performing Arts

Music and the performing arts are synonymous with vibrancy and emotion. From breathtaking concerts to compelling theatre productions, these arts bring stories and melodies to life, captivating audiences and enriching the cultural landscape.

Publishing

The publishing field stands as a beacon of information and imagination within the creative industries. From gripping novels to insightful articles, it connects authors with audiences, preserving and promoting the written word across diverse platforms.