Ealing has a rich tradition of art, music and culture, from the many great films produced by Ealing Studios to the Hanwell Hootie and upcoming Summer Festivals.

To build upon this bedrock, Ealing Council is developing a cultural manifesto and renewal plan to develop the arts, culture and heritage offer with a clear focus and direction.

Sixteen individuals and organisations representing the creative arts in Ealing have come together to co-develop the manifesto with the council and are now looking for local residents, businesses and arts organisations to contribute their views.

The consultation opened yesterday (Monday, June 28) and you can have your say on arts and culture in Ealing until August 19. 

Councillor Jasbir Anand, cabinet member for thriving communities commented: "COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on culture and the creative and night-time industries but it has also shown the invaluable contribution that culture can make to revitalise places, support economic recovery and bring connection and support to our communities.

"Together with the Culture Task Group, we will develop an exciting vision and action plan which will promote excellence and accessibility to our arts, culture and heritage offer, and provides growth, resilience and sustainability of our creative economy and skills."

Three Youth Collectives in Acton, Greenford and Northolt will also be engaging directly with young people in Ealing, while a creative installation will travel across the borough to all seven towns from early July.

Intended to be an innovative conversation starter, the installation will be a chance to provide hyperlocal views on art and culture.

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"I encourage everyone to get involved in this consultation" said Councillor Anand. "Whether you take part online or directly through the local interactive activity, your ideas and views are very welcome."

Beyond the development of the cultural manifesto, if you would like to be engaged or be kept informed on opportunities around arts, culture and creativity, you can join the Ealing Arts & Culture Network. This is open to everyone living or working in the Ealing creative sector.

The network shares job and funding opportunities as well as other relevant information. The group meets a couple of times a year with external invited speakers. For more information on the network and how to join, please email [email protected].