Immersion in London's Creative Cluster

Participated in the international conference for creative industries researchers BEYOND 2023, London, UK.

BEYOND 2023 took place at the prestigious Royal Institution in London and was dedicated to the global creative economy. It provided a platform for the world’s leading researchers, investors, business leaders, and thinkers for discussions, panel sessions, Q&A, showcasing pioneering projects, and networking opportunities. Key topics included creative economies around the world, emerging trends, and the intersection of art and technology.

The British Council organized the delegation for Central Asian countries.

In addition to the conference, the British Council organized a full tour of key London locations that form the creative cluster:

• British Council
• Greater London Authority
• World Cities Culture Forum
• Hackney Wick & Fish Island
• Here East
• Loughborough University
• Plexal
• Somerset House Studios
• 180 Studios

180 Studios

I really loved 180 Studios. It’s the biggest creative hub I’ve ever seen. Extremely stylish, creative, and multifunctional. You can collaborate, create, and relax here. The rooftop pool alone is worth the visit! I was impressed by the multimedia halls, the business model, and the founder himself. If you’re in London, definitely stop by.

180 Studios is a creative center located at 180 The Strand in London.

Goals:

• Supporting emerging talent and providing a platform for creative growth
• Building a community of creative people, entrepreneurs, thinkers, and cultural researchers
• Integrating creation, exhibition, education, and socialization in the cultural sphere

For creative industries researchers:

• Production and exhibition spaces
• Supporting connections and collaboration between creative professionals
• Access to a network of creative companies housed there, such as Dazed Media Group, IMG, The Vinyl Factory, and others

Interesting aspects:

• Located in an iconic brutalist building in London
• Unites various creative disciplines under one roof
• Aspires to be a cultural center for exchanging ideas and growing talent

Somerset House Studios

Goals:

• Providing space for experimentation and innovation in central London
• Connecting artists, authors, and thinkers with audiences
• Supporting artists across disciplines in realizing bold ideas, addressing current issues, and experimenting with new technologies

For creative industries researchers:

• Residency programs from 1 to 7 years for 70 artists simultaneously
• Short-term national and international residency programs
• Development of ambitious interdisciplinary projects and creative collaborations
• Online platform Channel for art, ideas, and creative processes

Here East & Plexal

Here East is a specialized campus for innovators, startups, universities, and cultural institutions, built on the architectural and cultural legacy of the Olympic Games. The goal is to unite these organizations for the benefit of the local community.

Plexal is an innovation company and workspace focused on collaborative work with government, startups, and industry to solve societal problems using technology. Tour led by Professor Graham Hitchen.

Key ideas:

• Cross-disciplinary collaboration between various sectors
• Using innovation and technology to solve social problems
• Connecting research, business, and culture in one hub
• Networking between startups, universities, scientists, and practitioners

Hackney Wick & Fish Island

History:

• In the Victorian era, this was a thriving industrial suburb producing petroleum products, plastics, inks, dyes, and confectionery
• More recently, the area was known for its printing industry, of which only a few businesses remain

Current state:

• Now home to one of the highest concentrations of artists and creative professionals in Europe
• In 2018, London’s government designated the area as one of the first Creative Enterprise Zones for its protection

We had a walking tour of the Creative Enterprise Zone, visiting local residents and members of the district’s creative community.

Takeaways:

• Learned about the rich industrial heritage and modern creative life of the district
• Met local artists, artisans, and creative entrepreneurs
• Gained insight into the cultural environment of one of Europe’s leading creative clusters

Found the perfect book.