Below we have listed the different networks, groups and sources of advice that we know exist for creative and cultural organisations and individuals in Bucks. This list is correct at time of publishing, and if we have missed anything, please do let us know.
Cultural Sector Network (run by Buckinghamshire Culture)
The Buckinghamshire Culture Sector Network is open to anyone interested in increasing creative and cultural opportunities for the people of Buckinghamshire – whether you are a freelancer, work in a theatre, museum, youth charity, local authority, university or any where else. Our events are designed to share information and opportunities, enable connection, develop partnerships and projects, and create space for collaboration and exploration.
We also provide support and advice in relation to funding, organisational development, project development, partnership etc. Please reach out if you would like a conversation.
Contact: lallie@buckinghamshireculture.org
Creative Network (run by Buckinghamshire Culture)
The Buckinghamshire Culture Creative Network is open to creative practitioners, artists and freelancers looking to connect and share. Events focus on topics specific to creative workers and include speakers who can share advice, good practice and useful information.
We also provide one to one support and advice in relation to funding, creative development, project development, partnership etc. Please reach out if you would like a conversation.
Contact: Lallie@buckinghamshirecutlure.org
Chiltern Creative
Chiltern Creative is an informal networking group for people in Chesham who work in the creative industries. The group has a number of networking events each year, hosted by Chesham businesses.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/people/Chiltern-Creative/100080110668370/
Visual Images Group (organisers of Bucks Art Weeks)
The Visual Images Group (VIG) are the organisers of Bucks Art Weeks exhibitions and events, an association of Buckinghamshire artists and makers. Bucks Art Weeks brings together the work of hundreds of contemporary artists and makers around Buckinghamshire. Each year in June, pop-up exhibitions appear in working studios, galleries, and other venues. Every type of work is on show – sculpture, glass, jewellery, painting, wirework, woodwork, photography, textiles, and more – for visitors to view, purchase or commission. Visual Images Group membership is required to enable participation in Bucks Art Weeks.
Contact: admin@bucksartweeks.org.uk
Website: https://www.bucksartweeks.org.uk/
Wycombe Swan Creative Network
A cost-free network for local creatives to gather, share, learn and connect. Whether you are an illustrator, choreographer, arts manager or drama teacher, this network is open to all. Meetings are quarterly at Wycombe Swan from 6pm-8pm.
Those interested can register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScab_zW56xyMWPiTz8bN_J1MC9XHzmfbvVgl_1dLG7N6UNnZQ/viewform?usp=pp_url
Young Creative Bucks
Young Creative Bucks is the county’s Cultural Education Partnership. A partnership that includes local government, schools, youth organisations, higher education, health and social care, trusts and foundations, arts, heritage, and the creative industries, it focusses on increasing young people’s access to arts and culture. If you want to support young people to fulfil their creative curiosity, develop their talent, explore and pursue career opportunities into the creative industries, get in touch to be part of meetings, events and projects.
Contact: cwillis@youngcreativebucks.org
Website: https://youngcreativebucks.org/
Other Useful Places for Information and Advice
Buckinghamshire Business First
Buckinghamshire Business First (BBF) offers a range of support for creatives/freelancers/artists/creative businesses in the county. BBF are there to help with many day-to-day questions around running a business alongside workshops addressing such topics as; marketing, digital, understanding your finances, business planning etc. You can also find business resources on their website.
If you sign up (free to all) you gain access to their directory, co-working hubs in various locations, workshops, events and mentoring.
Contact: 01494 927130 / BusinessSupport@bbf.uk.com
Website: www.bbf.uk.com
Visit Buckinghamshire
Visit Buckinghamshire is the local tourist board for the county. If you would like to tap into the wider visitor economy network in Bucks to connect to other attractions and hospitality organisations, or access specific advice & support, please reach out to Lucy: lucy.dowson@visitbuckinghamshire.org
Website: https://www.visitbuckinghamshire.org/
Inclusion in this list is not to be considered endorsement.
Buckinghamshire Culture 