Inspiring creatives to bring their visions to life will be the focus when the Creators’ Summit Ipswich returns for 2025.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said hundreds of new and emerging artists have had doors opened to them through the summit in previous years.“The Creators’ Summit is an exciting event for emerging and established artists, where ideas can be brought to life,” Mayor Harding said.
“The summit is a celebration of all things creative, giving Ipswich artists a wonderful opportunity to connect with other artists, musicians, creators and businesses.
“This year’s theme is Dream, Develop, Deliver and we’re lucky to have an incredible lineup to inspire our community, including keynote speaker, comedian and actor Matt Okine.
“Arts and culture are a driving force in our vibrant and growing city, bringing significant economic and social benefits, and council is very proud to elevate our creative community through events such as this.
“The summit this year is being held across the city centre, highlighting just how lucky we are to have so many cultural venues within walking distance, such as the Ipswich Art Gallery, Ipswich Community Gallery, Ipswich Art Workshop, Ipswich Civic Centre, Studio 188, Fire Station 101 and Tulmur Place in the Nicholas Street Precinct.
“I look forward to seeing artists make the most of this fantastic opportunity to network, learn and create.”
Economic and Cultural Development Committee Chairperson Councillor Pye Augustine said the summit is just one of many opportunities that council offers to support the Ipswich arts community.
“This summit is all about helping our artists flourish. Our arts community is integral to our city, and each year we see it go from strength to strength,” Cr Augustine said.
“Creatives can look forward to an array of hands-on workshops at this year’s summit, from learning how to plan an event and navigating the Regional Arts Development Fund, to hearing about street art and a Big Draw Festival.
“It’s great to have this year’s summit on a Saturday which will allow more people to attend and learn about the many opportunities available to them in Ipswich.
“Ipswich’s creative scene is rich and diverse. The Ipswich Art Gallery is one of the most well attended regional galleries in the country, and is currently displaying a painting by renowned American artist Mark Rothko, valued at $116 million, and the new Don’t get too comfortable exhibition will be opening on the same day as the summit.”
Ipswich Arts Advisory Group member, musician and beatboxer Tom Thum said he felt lucky to be part of such a passionate creative community.
“I’m always blown away by how much talent there is here in Ipswich. This summit is full of opportunities for artists to further develop their talents, whether you’re a musician, visual artist, writer or comedian,” Thum said.
“I’m very fortunate to be a presenter this year alongside an inspiring lineup and I’m excited to see the community come together.”
The 2025 Creators’ Summit Ipswich will be held at the Ipswich Civic Centre on Saturday 1 March from 9am to 4.30pm.
For a full list of presenters and to book a ticket to the summit, visit ShapeYourIpswich.com.au/Creators-Summit-Ipswich
