University hails success of creative showcase

The University of Derby has hailed the success of an event which showcased the talents of creative businesses based at Banks Mills Studios.

The aim of the Spring Showcase event was to encourage other businesses across the region to connect and collaborate with the creative talent based at the business incubation centre.

The event was opened by Professor Alex Molasiotis, pro-vice chancellor dean of the College of Arts, Humanities and Education, who spoke about the creative and cultural industries in Derby and the role played by the School of Arts and Banks Mill Studios to nurture the next generation of creative talent.

Leader of Derbyshire County Council, Councillor Barry Lewis formally closed the Derbyshire Festival of Business, which had delivered in excess of 100 events and had been made possible with funding from Vision Derbyshire and delivered in partnership with the East Midlands Chamber.

This was followed by an inspirational keynote speech and performance by Derbyshire vocalist and violinist Lizzie Ball, who founded her company, Classical Kicks Productions in 2012.

Event organiser Anna Wood said: “With 20 exhibitors and 50 attendees it was great to see so many people networking, giving our artists, makers and creative service businesses a chance to shine and promote what they do.”

Adam Buss, director of Culture Derby, said: “The Banks Mill community has proven, time and again, that is resilient, innovative, creative and world class.

“The event was no exception and bought together some of the city’s creative businesses at the university’s central business centre.

“These sorts of events are a key component to supporting the creative communities and I look forward to the next one.”