Member Article

Bristol to host Creative Economy ‘hub’

Bristol is set to host one of four Knowledge Exchange Hubs for the Creative Economy launched by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC).

The Hubs aim to connect researchers with the UK’s vibrant creative sector, giving a £16m boost to the UK’s Creative Economy.

The University of the West of England is leading the consortium responsible for the Research and Enterprise in the Arts and Creative Technologies (REACT).

REACT will also work closely with creative businesses, including SMEs, arts and culture organisations and other agencies.

It is directed by Professor Jon Dovey and based in Watershed’s Pervasive Media Studio, the city centre studio which brings together artists, technologists and academics to explore the future of creative technologies.

Professor Dovey said: “Our Creative Economy Hub is all about building new relationships between academics and businesses.

“REACT is off to a flying start with six projects already in production taking humanities research and creating inspiring experiences for heritage visitors.

“Our projects combine academics and business to make innovative digital services. Research is finding new audiences and creative economy businesses are developing new products.

“We’re aiming to change the culture so that academics and creatives become part of one another’s world.”

Over the next four years, an investment by the AHRC of around £16m will enable the Hubs to build new partnerships and entrepreneurial capacity in the Creative Economy, and increase the number of arts and humanities researchers actively engaged in research-based knowledge exchange.

David Willetts, Minister for Universities and Science said, “The AHRC’s four KE Hubs represent an incredible opportunity for the UK’s innovative and world-leading creative sector to collaborate with the excellent arts and humanities research at our higher education institutions.

“This interaction between businesses and universities is crucial for driving growth. The work of the four Hubs will enable businesses and organisations to benefit from our world-class research base as well as enrich the creative industries.”

Professor Rylance added: “The UK is outstanding at many things and leads the world in some. Of these the quality and innovation of our research and the dynamism of our creative economy are two that stand out.

“These AHRC Knowledge Exchange Hubs for the Creative Economy offer the opportunity to unite these sectors to the benefit of both sides and the country as a whole.

“We look forward to working closely with them over the next four years and to welcoming the results of their work.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .