Council has launched an exciting project that celebrates and visually captures the richness and diversity of cultural and creative activity, resources, businesses, and spaces across the Northern Beaches.

Culture Map Live, reveals the significance and extent of the cultural and creative sector with 21 categories to explore ranging from makers groups, recording and production studios, theatres, classes and creative spaces, designers, film-makers, musicians, performers, writers, artists, and best of all it’s a free online resource.

Northern Beaches Mayor Regan says the Beaches has a thriving creative community that works locally, nationally and internationally and this is a great platform to connect with these practitioners.

“Culture Map Live connects like-minded creatives, encourages collaboration and opens up opportunities for people to connect with culture in their local area – be it a dance class, new rehearsal space or work of public art.

“The Map shows the breadth and spread of the cultural and creative ecosystem on the Northern Beaches. It also includes the great variety and geographical spread of these businesses; a sector that we know contributes significantly to the Northern Beaches economy, generating $1.6 billion in output and $790 million in value added in 2018/19.

“The Map shines a light on this important local sector who have been strongly impacted, like many over the past couple of years, and are an essential part of our local community,” Mayor Regan said.

The Map is intended to grow and change over time and Council encourages all creative businesses and practitioners, especially home-based, to jump online and get themselves on the Map. The community are also invited to submit edits and add any missing listings. 

Culture Map Live is also an amazing tool to find local cultural activities like art classes for the kids, a creative business to collaborate with or a venue for your next gig or rehearsal – it’s a resource for the community to be a part of and keep up-to-date.

“We know there are many more creative and cultural businesses out there. This is your chance to get on the Map and complete the picture. Council is keen to create a deeper understanding of the characteristics of and relationships in the local cultural and creative eco-system.

“Our aim for the Northern Beaches is that the area is not only recognised for its coastline, natural environment and active lifestyle, but also for its distinct and vibrant arts sector, unique cultural experiences and creative opportunities,” Mayor Regan said.

To view the Cultural Live Map click here or if you would like to attend an information session about the project being held on Tuesday 9 November at 12.30pm, register here.