'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 final of three discussions, Victoria Barrow-Williams and Emma Edmondson (more speakers to be announced) will look ahead to consider how we might harness the Estuary to ensure our communities can take ownership of this common resource for the betterment of cultural practice, through creative practitioners making interventions and addressing the challenges between public and private spaces. The conversation will be chaired by Hayley Dixon.

Alternative text for image: Picture of a sunset.