About
LET’S CREATE
A New Dialogue
The 2023 National Public Galleries Summit will be presented in South Australia from 18 – 20 July, 2023. It is called Creative Spaces and is an arts professional development event designed to interrogate the role of galleries as spaces for community activation. As places that contribute to economic growth, provide education opportunities, foster social connectedness, offer tourism experiences and improve health and wellbeing.
The Summit includes a curated program of keynote presentations, breakout sessions, performances and practical workshops.
It is an event for arts workers, artists, educators, curators, gallerists, volunteers and academics. Delegates will be actively encouraged to be part of the conversation with opportunities to network, learn and share their own experiences.
OUR THEMES
The 2023 Themes
First Nations Contemporary Art
Translating 40,000+ years of culture into a contemporary form. This theme aims to extend people’s thinking about art and culture and how from a First Nation’s perspective, it has always been embedded within everyday life. What does this look like in 2023, and what is the role of galleries, particularly given the gallery system is based on European traditions. How can we change things, be more accountable and make better, safer places for First Nations’ contemporary art-making.
Heritage Interpretation & the Role of Contemporary Artists and Galleries
So many opportunities to better interpret stories, places and objects in ways that are captivating and engaging. The only challenge is how we can work respectfully with the keepers of heritage, both First Nations and colonial, so as not to undermine its integrity and be respectful. This theme is a provocation for galleries, artists, historians and academics to work together with a view to unpacking barriers and showcasing innovative practices to share stories in compelling and captivating ways.
Cross Industry Practice
The Business of Operating a Gallery
This theme takes in a range of practical things relating to managing a gallery. Sessions will offer something for those who are looking for practical advice, knowledge and skills as well as those looking for ideas and new models. Volunteering, collection management, retail development, public programming, curation and much more.
EXPERIENCE MORE
Art South Australia
There is no shortage of amazing things to do and see when you are visiting Adelaide for the Creative Spaces Summit. Our city, and indeed the South Australian Regions, have an enormous amount to offer from an arts, culture and heritage perspective. Not to mention you will find some sensational food and wine and landscapes both inland and coast that will leave you filled with wonder!
Check out the list below if you are looking for some inspiration and you will notice that many are within walking distance from the Summit Venue.
GALLERIES & MUSEUMS
Regional Galleries
Adelaide & Regional South Australia
South Australia is home to some amazing regional galleries, which are dotted throughout the state. There is a dozen or more galleries located within metropolitan Adelaide or within an hour from town – all offering fantastic touring and local content, with fantastic collections on offer also.
If you are keen to explore a bit further, the Mid North, Upper Spencer Gulf, Limestone Coast and Eyre Peninsula have some fantastic galleries and you can enjoy the unique SA landscape whilst you are at it. South Australia is a great place for a road trip.
Art Gallery of SA (AGSA)
North Terrace, Adelaide
A stunning building with an impressive array of spaces to enjoy some of the best art on offer in Australia. During the Summit, AGSA is presenting Frida and Diego Love and Revolution a ticketed event featuring the works of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, along with other contributors. All of the Creative Summit delegates will receive a complimentary ticket to see this exhibition whilst they are in town.
The Ramsay Art Prize will also be on display during July and the Elder Wing, which hosts changing exhibitions showcasing the Galleries collection is well worth a visit.
SA Museum
North Terrace, Adelaide
The South Australian Museum is an amazing facility with a host of great permanent and temporary displays to enjoy. During the Summit, Relics: A New World Rises will be on show – an exciting new touring exhibition featuring a collection of old and forgotten objects housing a miniature world built of LEGO.
The Museum also has one of the largest collections of First Nations artifacts, and the Mawson Collection offers a unique interpretation of Sir Douglas Mawson’s feats exploring the Polar regions.
State Library
North Terrace, Adelaide
The State Library offers many opportunities to explore and discover areas of the State’s history, family history, our special collections, digital collections and more. Even if you are not keen to engage with the bookish stuff, it is worth checking out the Mortlock Wing at the State Library – it is one of those incredible rooms, that will leave you awestruck!
The Centre of Democracy
North Terrace, Adelaide
The Centre of Democracy showcases the people, ideas and movements that have shaped, and continue to shape, democracy in South Australia. Featuring treasures from the state’s collections, the gallery contents challenge visitors to think again about people and power.
OUT & ABOUT
Adelaide Botanic Gardens
North Terrace, Adelaide
In the heart of the city but another world away … Take time out to explore the beauty and diversity of plants from across Australia and around the world. Spend an hour or spend the day among the 50 hectares of magnificently maintained gardens and stunning architecture. Relax in the shade or enjoy a coffee among some of Australia’s finest plant collections.
The Adelaide Zoo
Frome Road, Adelaide
Adelaide Zoo, one of Adelaide’s most iconic attractions, is home to more than 2,500 animals and 250 species of exotic and native mammals, birds, reptiles and fish exhibited over eight hectares of magnificent botanic surroundings. It is the second oldest zoo in the nation and represents a significant part of South Australia’s heritage and social history. Since Adelaide Zoo first opened to the public in 1883, generations of South Australians have shared in the wonder of a visit to the zoo. And it is the only place in Australia you can see those big cuddly beast Wang Wang and Funi, our Giant Pandas.
National Wine Centre
Corner of Botanic and Hackney Roads, Adelaide
The Centre is the national showcase for the Australian wine industry. If you’re visiting the Centre to find out more about Australian wine, you’re certain to be impressed. It’s your chance to experience the winemaking process from the vine to the bottle through our interactive Wine Discovery Journey. To complete your experience, head down to the Wined Bar and taste over 120 wines dispensed from the Enomatic systems or enjoy a meal from the seasonal menu.
Illuminate Adelaide Festival
Adelaide City – Various Locations
Lighting up Adelaide from 28 June – 30 July with a celebration of innovation, art, light, music and technology. Australia’s newest major winter event returns bigger, brighter and bolder — a beacon, an invitation, a city-wide spectacle of art, light, sound and imagination, daring you to shake off the winter blues and rekindle a sense of wonder. Shining a light on South Australia for the month of July, Illuminate Adelaide welcomes people from all walks of life to experience a program of free and ticketed events by local, national and international artists and companies.
The Creative Spaces Summit main social gathering on the evening of Wednesday 19 July includes a unique Illuminate presentation – a complimentary ticket will be provided.
VISIT SOUTH AUSTRALIA
For Stargazers
Northern border of the Murray River, Lakes & Coorong Region.
River Murray International Dark Sky Reserve is Australia’s first.
It joins an elite group of remarkable dark places around the world. The Reserve includes some 80 kilometres of the magnificent River Murray, small townships, Conservation Parks, farmland, and some of the darkest skies on the planet.
At just 90 minutes from the South Australian capital Adelaide, the Reserve is readily accessible to visitors.
www.rivermurraydarkskyreserve.org
For Food & Wine Lovers
Barossa Valley, Clare Valley & Fleurieu Peninsula regions
The Barossa Valley has one of the oldest food cultures in the world and there is no better place than the Barossa Farmer’s Market to check out what is on offer. Not to mention some of the country’s best restaurants and vineyards! If you have time, the Clare Valley and McLaren Vale regions also have lots to offer too!
www.barossa.com
www.clarevalley.com.au/
www.mclarenvaleandfleurieucoast.com.au/
For Beach Lovers
Henley, Grange & Semaphore
You don’t have to go too far from the city to enjoy great SA beaches – Henley, Glenelg and Semaphore beaches are literally a stone’s throw from the city. If you want to take in some big sky beach landscapes however – and feel like you are the only person in the world – head South to the Fleurieu Peninsula or over to the Yorke Peninsula – miles and miles of beach all to yourself.
For Lovers of the Australian Bush
Adelaide Hills & Flinders Ranges
The Adelaide Hills are just a stone’s throw away from Adelaide City and whilst the Flinders Ranges are a bit of a drive – they are a must see. In SA you can go places where the desert, mountains, bush and sea collide and it makes for an awe-inspiring experience. The National Parks and Wildlife Service can give you all the best information about the state’s National Parks.
THANKS TO OUR
Event Sponsors
for supporting this year's summit.
Need more information?
For all other enquiries or questions, please contact the Summit Convenor Maz McGann on 0438 807 973 or mmcgann@internode.on.net