Join us at the Millennium Gallery, Sheffield on April 28, 2026, for an enriching day at Exhibitions Connect. This event promises to be an exciting opportunity for networking, knowledge sharing, and exploring innovative partnerships in the exhibitions sector.
Event Schedule
Monday, April 27
Evening Networking and Social Event
Time and location TBC
Kickstart your experience with an evening dedicated to mingling and connecting with industry professionals in a relaxed setting.
Tuesday, April 28
09:15 – 09:45
Tour of the Graves Gallery for Delegates
No booking required
Explore the artistic offerings of the Graves Gallery and engage with fellow attendees before the day’s events.
10:15 – 10:45
Arrival, Refreshments, Networking, and Opportunity to Visit Stands
Settle in with refreshments, network with peers, and discover various exhibition stands.
10:45 – 11:00
Welcome and Introductions
Join us as we officially welcome the delegates and set the stage for a day of insightful discussions.
11:00 – 11:45
How Exhibitions Can Lead to Organisation-Wide Change
Speakers: Zandra Yeaman (Head of Strategy Development and Implementation, Hunterian Museum & Art Gallery) in conversation with Reyahn King (Executive Director, The Exhibitions Group)
Dive into a compelling discussion on the transformative power of exhibitions and their impact on organisational culture.
11:45 – 12:15
Share Session
Gain insights from 10 organisations and individuals sharing viable partnership opportunities and exhibitions available for hire.
12:15 – 13:45
Lunch (Included with Ticket), Networking, Opportunity to Visit Stands, Gallery Tours
Enjoy lunch with fellow attendees while exploring more exhibition stands. Curator-led tours will be available during this time, but advance booking is required for the following:
- Katie Irwin – The Taylor Wessing Photo Portrait Prize (30 max per tour)
- Ashley Gallant – Ruskin Collection: Storm-Cloud – The Look of the Sky (20 max per tour)
- Amy Marsh – Artworks Together International 2026 (20 max per tour)
Delegates will receive booking instructions in March.
13:45 – 14:15
Exhibition Making Now: Strategy, Skills, and Sustainable Models
Speakers: Miranda Stacey (TEG) and Rachel Mapplebeck (Cultural Associates Oxford)
Explore a new research report on Temporary and Touring Exhibitions Practice, covering critical aspects like economic models, partnership opportunities, and strategies for adaptation to future challenges in the exhibitions landscape.
14:15 – 15:05
Co-creating on the Move: Community-Led Approaches to Exhibition Making and Touring
Panel: Mark Revels (Armagh, Northern Ireland), Margie Houlston (National Museums Liverpool), and one more speaker TBC
Chair: Dana Andrew (Professional Development Manager, The Exhibitions Group)
Listen to a dynamic panel discussing how community voices are driving innovation in exhibition creation and touring processes, leading to more impactful outcomes.
15:05 – 15:50
Refreshments, Networking, and Opportunity to Visit Stands
Take a break, enjoy some refreshments, and connect with other delegates.
15:50 – 16:30
Keynote Speaker
Announcement coming soon!
Stay tuned for a distinguished keynote that promises to inspire and enlighten.
16:30 – 16:40
Updates from The Exhibitions Group, Event Wrap-Up and Close
Conclude the day with important updates from The Exhibitions Group and a summary of key takeaways.
We invite you to be part of this exciting day filled with learning, networking, and collaboration opportunities. Mark your calendar, and book your place today – we look forward to welcoming you to Exhibitions Connect 2026!
