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Non-ference – Navigating Change
This year, in the absence of a Conference, we are hosting an in-person event at Waddesdon Vilage Hall to inform and identify direction, and discuss contemporary themes and challenges for the cultural sector, named the “Nonference“.
The Nonference aims to deliver an interactive and engaging session led by expert speakers to explore a sector in transition; the journey to net zero, the ever-changing technical landscape, the impact of AI, and how to safeguard future generations.
Join us for an energetic and playful session to discuss “AI for Culture” with Jocelyn Burnham, one of team tasked with developing “Goose”, a bespoke AI platform for theheritage sector. Jocelyn is a leading independent AI communicator, workshop leader, and speaker, specialising in AI learning in the creative and cultural sector.
This AI session is set to feature alongside insight from the Sustainability Team Lead at Waddesdon Manor sharing the developmental journey to implement a sustainability strategy at Waddesdon Manor.
Delicious food will be provided and Tea and Coffee served throughout the day.
Licensed Bar on-site.
Free Parking.
Agenda
15:30 – 16:00 – Arrival, networking, teas and coffees.
16:00 – 16:10 – Welcome and updates from Bucks Culture hear from Chair Julius Weinberg
16:10 – 16:15 – Introduction to Programme and Warm up – Bucks Culture, Programme Manager, Kerry Lanigan
16:15 – 16:45 – AI for Culture with Jocelyn Burnham – This energetic and playful session introduces emerging AI concepts which explore emotion, expression, copyright and innovation through the lens of culture and self-directed learning. Presented from a neutral perspective, participants are be encouraged to share thoughts, criticisms and reactions to the materials, while also exploring emerging conversations, criticisms and experiments taking place around AI in the arts & culture sector.
16:45 – 17:00 Q & A – Come with some questions
17:00 – 17:20 Sustainable Operations at Waddesdon Manor with Dickon Leigh-Wood – Join Dickon Leigh-Wood from the Rothschild Foundation for an inside look at how Waddesdon Manor is embedding sustainability into its daily operations. Dickon will share the story behind the installation of a ground source heat pump system and other innovative measures designed to reduce the estate’s carbon footprint while preserving its historic character.
The session explores how environmental responsibility can be integrated into the management of heritage sites — from energy and resource efficiency to long-term planning and staff engagement. Participants will hear about the challenges and rewards of implementing change at scale, and how practical collaboration between curators, engineers, and conservationists can drive real progress.
Dickon’s work offers an inspiring example of how cultural organisations can lead by example, combining tradition and innovation to create more sustainable futures for people, places, and collections.
17:20-17:30 – Q & A with Dickon – Come with questions
17:30 – 18:50 – Food, drink and networking
18:50 – 19:00 – Thank you from Bucks Culture
Times: 1530 – 1900
A light meal is provided with a complimentary drink. Tea & coffee served throughout.
Free Parking
£15: Freelancers, Artists and small orgs.
£20: Larger Organisations (5+ employees and more)