Engage Gathering 2026 : Islands of Sanity

EARLY BIRD TICKETS NOW ON SALE UNTIL 10 JULY 2026

Engage, the UK network for visual arts engagement and participation, invites you to join us for our Annual Gathering. The Engage Gathering 2026 will draw on the theme of Islands of Sanity, a concept explored by author and activist Margaret J Wheatley in her 2024 book 'Restoring Sanity':

At this time when lives and possibilities are destroyed by casual destructive decisions, I aspire for us to be sane leaders devoted to restoring and awakening the finest qualities of being human—our generosity, creativity, and kindness. We will not change the world, but we can create Islands of Sanity where our human spirits come alive and we contribute in ways that make more possible

Our 2026 Conference Programmer and artist Nicola Richardson has used the metaphor of island, waters and boat building to design a programme which will guide delegates through a journey of reflection, context and action.

On the Island focuses on the spaces we create as artists, facilitators and creative practitioners: places and practices that offer care, dialogue, imagination and moments of sanity in a volatile world.

The Waters looks outward to the wider political, social and policy landscape in which this work takes place, creating space to hear from key speakers and to reflect on the pressures, realities and questions emerging for the sector.

Boat Building then turns toward action, exploring the kinds of engaged practice, bridge-building and collaborative approaches that can help us move beyond our immediate spaces and into meaningful dialogue, wider connection and positive change.

Join with visual arts engagement and participation colleagues from across the UK and beyond, for an engaging, reflective and dynamic conference. Come away with learning, practical tools and inspiration to apply to your own settings.

What to expect:

• Presentations from inspiring guest speakers from across the UK
• Panel discussions and audience participation
• Breakout group discussions
• Facilitated workshops and creative sessions
• Visits to art spaces around Coventry, including British Art Show 10
• Networking activities and social opportunities

Join us as we create an Island of Sanity at the Engage Gathering in Coventry:

• Care: find solidarity, build lasting connections, be restored by inspiring perspectives and experiences.

• Dialogue: be part of the conversation, learn together, share your own practice.

• Action: leave with the tools, ideas, networks and resources to catalyse change.

Why Coventry?

Gathering 2026 celebrates Engage's recent relocation to the Midlands, delivering our UK-wide activities through a base at Coventry University's School of Arts and Creative Industries. This year Engage is collaborating with the University and the city’s cultural partnerships as they come together for British Art Show 10 by supporting engagement and fringe activity.

Who is Gathering 2025 for?

Engage members and non-members are welcome at this event. The programme content is relevant to anyone who:

• Currently works, volunteers or studies in the art sector, at any stage of their career.

• Is an artist, producer, fundraiser, evaluator, researcher, director, programmer, educator, for example.

• Is interested in engagement, participation, and learning practices that involve visual arts or artists.

Engage is the leading network and charity for visual arts engagement and participation in the UK. Find out more about our membership offer: www.engage.org

About Conference Programmer, Nicola Richardson:

Nicola is a creative facilitator, consultant and co-founder of Vortex Creates, based in Coventry. She has over 20 years’ experience working across the arts, education and community sectors, with a practice rooted in collaboration, consultation and creative participation.

Booking information

If you or your organisation need to pay by invoice for the event, please email [email protected] by writing 'pay by invoice: Gathering 2026' in the subject.

Engage Personal and Group members are entitled to reduced ticket costs (30-50% off) as part of your member benefits. Discounted places are available only to those with current membership, Eventbrite promo codes are accessed by logging to our website or emailing [email protected].

Please note your membership must be active at the time of booking and Gathering registration (12-14 October 2026).

Apply for a £30 low income/access ticket

Members and non members of Engage who are experiencing financial hardship can apply for 1 of our 20 available £30 Full Gathering Tickets.

These tickets are not means tested, are offered on trust, and an a first-come-first-served basis. Please only apply for a low income/access ticket if you would otherwise be unable to attend the conference to ensure this offer reaches those in most need. We recommend joining Engage as a Personal Concessionary Member to access 40% off Early Bird or 50% off full price tickets, alternatively.

To apply for a £30 ticket please email your full name, access and dietary requirements to [email protected]

A confirmation email will be sent within 14 days to all successful applicants.

All delegates are responsible for their own travel and accomodation costs.

Accessibility

If you have any access requirements, please let us know on the booking form how we can help you participate in this event.

Dietary Requirements

Lunch is provided on 13th and 14th of October, along with hot and cold drinks. Please state your dietary requirements when booking.

Local Travel and Accommodation recommendations and discounts will be shared with delegates.

Info: Optional activities across Coventry, a chance to connect with members ahead of the main event and explore cultural venues. Booked in advance with limited spaces available.

Info: Welcome drinks and networking for all delegates.

Info: Delegates arrive and register for the Gathering. Tea and Coffee provided.

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