While the theme for this year’s Creators’ Summit Ipswich was “The Future Belongs to the Weird,” the day itself belonged to a record number of attendees who networked, learned and took inspiration from artists from across South East Queensland.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the energy at the Ipswich Civic Centre on Saturday was electric.
“This was the best version of the summit so far, with hundreds of attendees networking, learning and enjoying themselves on the day,” Mayor Harding said.
“It was a true meeting of the minds and a show of the strength and depth, of Ipswich’s creative scene. Attendees were treated to inspiring talks, hands‑on workshops and the opportunity to network with artists experienced and new.
“Australian Indie-Pop legend Ben Lee was the special guest for an in-conversation, while Ipswich’s local talent held their own, with singer Tim McCallum, fine art and design practitioner Benitta, country and folk musician Damien J Johnson and multimedia artist Glen Smith all contributing.
“I’m genuinely excited to see the creativity that will emerge in the months ahead, inspired by the energy and ideas shared at the summit.
“Events like this make it clear that Ipswich is rapidly becoming a cultural powerhouse in its own right. Our momentum is unmistakable, and as our city continues to grow at an unprecedented pace, so too will the depth and vibrancy of our creative community.”
Economic and Cultural Development Committee Chairperson Councillor Pye Augustine said the summit was extremely well-received by attendees.
“A special highlight was an encore performance of Sixteen Tons, first showcased at last year’s 50th Anniversary Civic Centre celebrations,” Cr Augustine said.
“The piece brought together an all‑Ipswich lineup, including Tom Thum, Paulina, Maxwell Douglas from Thv Flood, members of the Ipswich Big Band, and a spectacular contribution from the Ipswich-Blackstone Cambrian Choir.
“There are already questions about what next year will be like, and that shows that it was a successful event.
“Council recently endorsed a 10-year vision called Our Creative Future 2025-2035 – which outlines our vision for Ipswich to be a nationally recognised creative city, shaped by its people, powered by its spirit and grounded in its history.
“The Creators’ Summit is an important opportunity in working towards achieving that vision, providing a space to inspire the community to foster their artistic spirit which will ultimately help grow Ipswich’s reputation as a creative city.”
For more information about council’s support of the city’s arts and culture sector, visit Shapeyouripswich.com.au/creativeindustries
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