Our Day of Dialogue celebrated the power of a Goldsmiths education - and the transformative gift it has inspired.
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The Day of Dialogue welcomed esteemed alumni, current students and staff, major donors, and representatives from City Livery companies and philanthropic organisations.
Goldsmiths' supporters at the Day of Dialogue
The Goldsmiths Centre for Contemporary Art (CCA), the College’s public gallery, was the setting for our Day of Dialogue, bringing together key voices to discuss the future of education.
Led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Frances Corner OBE and Goldsmiths’ Chair of Council, Tom Sleigh, the event welcomed esteemed alumni, current students and staff, major donors, and representatives from City Livery companies and philanthropic organisations.
A highlight of the day was a keynote address by renowned artist and alumnus Sir Antony Gormley RA, who spoke on the transformative power of a Goldsmiths education.
Goldsmiths' innovative spirit
The programme featured a series of dialogues and student-led performances, highlighting the innovative spirit that defines Goldsmiths. Discussions included contributions from representatives of the Goldsmiths' Company, the Aziz Foundation, the Oak Foundation, and philanthropist Peter L. Kellner. Journalist and broadcaster Brenda Emmanus OBE expertly chaired the sessions, guiding a dynamic exchange of ideas throughout the day.
The passion in the room and the collective drive to support the next generation of creative thinkers was inspiring—and I know these discussions will stay with me for a long time.”
Professor Frances Corner OBE, Vice-Chancellor
A transformative gift
A highlight of the event was a landmark donation from Peter L. Kellner, who has gifted £2 million in cash and pledged to bequeath an art collection currently valued at approximately £5 million. This extraordinary contribution reflects the shared vision of the Day of Dialogue and will support key initiatives at Goldsmiths, including the Equity Awards, the Migrant Futures Institute, the CCA, Alchemy, Forensic Architecture, and the Open Book programme.
Alchemy students with staff member and mentor Martin Vito
The Day of Dialogue not only reinforced our commitment to building meaningful partnerships with major donors and philanthropic organisations but also highlighted our dedication to tackling complex societal challenges through creative education and research.
Students and supporters at the Goldsmiths Day of Dialogue
Fostering an inclusive, innovative, and socially responsible academic environment
To learn more about the speakers, their contributions, and some of the key programmes that embody Goldsmiths’ mission and values, visit:
Goldsmiths Day of Dialogue page
Image gallery
Annie Warburton, Chief Executive and Clerk of the Goldsmiths' Company
Friends, supporters, and representatives from Livery Companies
Equity Award Scholars (and Alchemy Director, Mikey Kirkpatrick)
Guests applauding a student performance
Rahima Aziz, Peter L Kellner, Rachel Quick and Professor Frances Corner OBE
Goldsmiths Chair of Council, Tom Sleigh
Jane Hindle, formerly of the Merchant Taylors' Company with Veronica Pearce and Torri Stewart, both from the City of London Corporation
Goldsmiths' Joe Baden OBE, Director of Open Book