'The Thames Estuary: A Creative Commons?' is a project collaboration between Focal Point Gallery (Southend), Kent Interdisciplinary Centre for Spatial Studies – KISS led by Dr Joseph Tzanopoulos with Dr Khalil Betz-Heinemann and Ken Whittaker, Quota Heritage lead and Design Council Specialist. It originates from an Ideas Lab led by University of Essex as part of Creative Estuary. This talks series forms part of the public programme for FPG's exhibition Tip of the Iceberg, which is curated by Hayley Dixon, FPG Assistant Director.

At a time when the proposed Thames freeport might re-impose limitations on public access to parts of the estuary we are looking to explore the past, present and future creative relationships between people, landscape and wildlife..

A range of artists, designers and practitioners will share experiences and ideas that re-examine 'commoning' (our common right to the earth’s natural resources) as a cultural consideration relevant to green and blue infrastructure. The discussion will contribute to research and development of holistic models of stewardship that sustain unique and often under-appreciated cultural associations that have shaped the landscapes, habitats and communities of the Thames Estuary.

This on-line event coincides with the Tip of the Iceberg exhibition at the Focal Point Gallery, in which artists explore ‘common’ themes.

In the first of three discussions, Kathi Bauer, Ian Bride, James Piers Taylor and Mark Walton will assess the various common practices and uses of the Thames Estuary region, and how these histories might be alive today in the stewardship of its land and waters. The conversation will be chaired by Dr Khalil Betz-Heinemann.

Alternative text for image: Old map of the River Thames