Designed in Devon: Torbay Chapter - First Meeting

Last Wednesday designers and creative businesses from all over Torbay converged at Fruition Creative Services to talk about Torbay’s potential, local design matters and the wealth of new places meet other creative people, such as the Pop Up showcase and networking events in Devon, as well as old spaces which are under-used, like Torre Abbey’s Spanish Barn.

Fruition Creative Services are based overlooking the harbour at Beacon Quay, and are perfectly situated, in the centre of Torquay to host the meetings (with the possibility to spill out into the nearby pubs). Mark Green, Director at Fruition Creative Services, said that “this is a really positive step for designers in Devon and we are excited to be part of making things happen”. Fruition are interested in meeting other designers and creative people in Devon, as a core interest of the firm is to provide a more joined up approach within Devon and the South West. They currently collaborate with other businesses in Devon and seeking to further develop more local links.

Torre Abbey has undergone a multi-million-pound investment, with more money to come. They have become a centre for showing contemporary art, whilst championing local artists and maintaining the local heritage. Amelia Marriette, Keeper of Art at Torre Abbey attended the first meeting and said this about it,

“Designed in Devon is a brilliant idea – a chance for creative people to meet like-minded people, brainstorm and most importantly MAKE THINGS HAPPEN! The day after the meeting South Devon College contacted me at Torre Abbey and now we are in talks about an exhibition in the Spanish Barn this year. Even in a recession things can happen – we just have to facilitate it wherever and whenever we can. It is not always money that is the catalyst, but people. That said, funding will be crucial and a Designed in Devon will look closely at getting hold of any monies available. If you are creative, please get involved and you too can be a conduit for action!”

Phillippa Rose, of Redfront and organizer of creative mingling and showcase #pop_up events in Devon, expanding to Somerset, said, “This is the beginning of something great for Torbay; a more joined up and collaborative approach to creative industries will benefit all in involved."

If you are interested in taking part in Designed in Devon and coming to the next meeting, join here http://www.designedindevon.co.uk/
Next meetings
Wednesday 4 May – 6.00pm at Fruition, Beacon Quay
Wednesday 8 June – 6.00pm at Fruition, Beacon Quay
Hope to see you there!

Links
Fruition Creative Services
http://fruition-design.co.uk/
Torre Abbey
http://www.torre-abbey.org.uk/
pop_up
http://www.facebook.com/popupSW

For more information visit http://www.designedindevon.co.uk/