The choice of Turner Contemporary for the 2014 COaST conference is apposite. One of Turner Contemporary’s strategic objectives is to be ‘a catalyst for the regeneration of Thanet’, aiming to ‘change people and communities’ (Turner Contemporary Business Plan, 2013: 15).

 

How effective is culture-led regeneration?  What success stories can we turn to, and where are the pitfalls in this strategy? Are the challenges faced by coastal communities unique to their situation? Who are the main agents for change, and how can this change be evaluated?

 

This year’s conference brings together a range of leading academics and professional experts to speak on these issues, both from international universities, and from arts and cultural institutions. The day promises a range of case studies, insights, provocative debate and, of course, the chance to meet and converse with other colleagues whose work is concerned with these topics.

 

Finally, the conference offers an opportunity to see the UK's first major show of early work by Piet Mondrian, view David Chipperfield’s stunning gallery at first hand, and take in the streets of Margate’s newly rejuvenated Old Town. Paddling and ice cream will also be available.

 

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