Connecting Culture is centred on partnership working, with a large group of strategic partners, arts organisations and funders generously supporting the project.
Read the thoughts of a number of key partners and funders below:
“Connecting Culture contributes perfectly to the delivery of the University’s Arts and Culture Strategy, creating a superb evidence base which will increase our knowledge and experience of Southampton’s cultural sector and the impact that creativity can have on children and young people. This programme also demonstrates how the University of Southampton can support the cultural sector, locally and nationally, to be more resilient and sustainable, especially in the face of the many factors that tend to limit investment in the arts.”
– Louise Coysh, Associate Director, Arts and Culture at the University of Southampton
“Arts and culture activities are great for people’s wellbeing and bring communities together, making them proud of where they live and work. This project is a timely and forward-looking approach to integrating young people into the city’s cultural offer, helping to inspire future generations and provide more experiences for people, no matter what their age or background. We are delighted to support the University of Southampton in this ambitious project, all thanks to National Lottery investment.”
– Phil Gibby, Area Director, South West, Arts Council England
“Southampton City Council is thrilled to be part of this partnership project led by the University of Southampton, building on the significant investment in regenerating our Cultural Quarter. What’s really exciting about Connecting Culture is that children and young people are at the heart of shaping this project and it will provide invaluable evidence and insight to make sure we meet the needs of young people as we develop the city’s ambitious plans for inspiring future generations and become a child-friendly city.”
– Councillor Satvir Kaur, Cabinet Members for Homes and Culture, Southampton City Council
“This is an invaluable opportunity to strengthen and build upon the diverse range of cultural opportunities that Southampton has to offer. As educators, we recognise the immense power of learning through first-hand experience. I am sure that the Connecting Culture project will enrich the learning journey of the children and young people in our City.”
– Amanda Talbot-Jones, Chair Southampton Primary Heads Conference