In all good conferences, a smattering of inspiring keynotes peppers the program. But how do you get the balance right? And is there a responsibility to land a memorable punch with those keynotes, such as the announcement of breaking news or funding wins, or should you simply offer a rousing speech certain to inspire and lead the room forward?
At the recent Artlands 2023 gathering in Canberra (6-8 September) – marking the 80th anniversary of the peak arts organisation – no less than three politicians were in the room: Special Envoy for the Arts, Susan Templeman, Senator Sarah Hanson-Young and Shadow Minister for the Arts, Paul Fletcher MP. Templeman and Hanson-Young both presented speeches.
