The latest Reignite event, Reignite V, took place in York this week, drawing more than 250 creatives and business leaders to explore the remarkable outcomes of interdisciplinary partnerships. Centred around the theme of ‘Unexpected Collaborations,’ this fifth edition of the event highlighted how innovation can flourish when diverse sectors come together to challenge traditional approaches and spark new ideas.
Hosted at the Yorkshire Museum and York Art Gallery, Reignite V underscored the city’s role as a creative hub and its commitment to fostering a collaborative spirit.
Celebrating innovation through cross-sector collaboration
Reignite V offered a platform to showcase groundbreaking partnerships between local businesses, artists, and cultural organisations. Attendees witnessed firsthand how combining different expertise from fields like technology, art, and tourism can generate fresh perspectives and drive progress. As a city recognised for its vibrant creative sector, York has continued to lead by example, attracting global attention and serving as a blueprint for future collaborations.
Cherie Federico, Director of Aesthetica, commented on the event’s success:
“Reignite V showcased the power of cross-sector collaboration to drive innovation and growth. There are amazing things happening on our doorstep, and these pioneering collaborations provide the blueprint for how, as a city, we can work together to unleash our creative ambition. The results will be immense.”
This message resonated strongly, reflecting the event’s central focus on York’s future as a centre for creative ambition and growth.
Highlighting key collaborations
Throughout the evening, key figures from York’s creative landscape took to the stage to share their experiences of unexpected yet impactful partnerships. Notable speakers included Chris Pegg from City Cruises, who discussed their exciting collaboration with Netflix.
Lucy Hammond from Pilot Theatre shared insights into the theatre company’s groundbreaking integration of new technologies into its work. Abbigail Ollive of Castle Howard also spoke about the estate’s creative venture with world-renowned sculptor and Turner Prize winner Tony Cragg, while Charlotte Kingston from the National Railway Museum presented on commissioning thought-provoking artworks by Steve Messam and Hayley Wall.
These talks offered inspiring examples of how collaboration across sectors can push the boundaries of creativity, leading to results that might not have been possible within a single discipline. The fusion of historical landmarks like Castle Howard with contemporary art, or the intersection of cruise tourism and entertainment giants like Netflix, exemplifies the unexpected synergies that Reignite seeks to highlight.
An evening of art, music, and networking
Following the inspiring talks, attendees were treated to a special LATE event at York Art Gallery. Featuring music from local DJ Upside Your Mind, the evening provided ample networking opportunities alongside complimentary drinks courtesy of Dutch Barn Vodka. Attendees also enjoyed an exclusive chance to view the hugely popular Monet exhibition, which runs until 8th September.
This combination of cutting-edge discussions, cultural experiences, and a relaxed social atmosphere was integral to the success of Reignite V, demonstrating the event’s ability to not only inspire but also bring together York’s creative community in a meaningful way.
The future of Reignite: Driving York’s creative ambition
Reignite is more than just a series of events—it is a vision for the city. As a UNESCO City of Media Arts, York is committed to leveraging its creative credentials to attract investment, retain talent, and create jobs. The initiative seeks to quantify the economic impact of the creative sector and foster a thriving ecosystem that supports both artists and businesses.
By fostering an environment where unexpected collaborations can flourish, Reignite is helping to solidify York’s position as a leading creative city. The next event in the series, titled ‘Culture Makes Place,’ is set to take place on Thursday, 7th November. The upcoming event will delve deeper into how culture shapes a city’s identity and growth. Those interested in attending can follow Aesthetica and The York BID for more updates.
Organisers and partners of Reignite V
Reignite V was brought to life by a collaboration of leading cultural and business organisations in York, including Aesthetica, York BID, and York Museums Trust. Support for the event came from the City of York Council, City Cruises, Pilot Theatre, Castle Howard, the National Railway Museum, and Dutch Barn Vodka. Together, these organisations play a critical role in championing York’s creative sector and ensuring the city continues to grow as a beacon for innovation and collaboration.
About York BID
York Business Improvement District (BID) is an independent, not-for-profit organisation funded by city centre businesses. It aims to enhance the trading environment in York by delivering impactful projects that boost the economic potential of local businesses. Through initiatives like Reignite, York BID demonstrates its commitment to promoting collaboration and economic growth.
About Aesthetica
Aesthetica is an international media organisation that celebrates contemporary art, film, and digital media. The organisation produces a bi-monthly magazine, exhibitions, and events like the BAFTA-Qualifying Aesthetica Film Festival, which takes place from 6th to 10th November across 15 city centre venues in York. Alongside the festival, the UNESCO City of Media Arts Expo will be launched, showcasing successful businesses in fields like film, gaming, and VFX from York and North Yorkshire.
Reignite V underscored the power of collaboration in driving creativity and economic growth. As the city continues to embrace its UNESCO Media Arts designation, events like Reignite are paving the way for a vibrant, connected future where innovation thrives.
