Past Conferences

As part of achieving one of our three strategic aims – to generate health demand for the arts – Aesop hosts a biennial National Arts in Health Conference and Showcase for health decision-makers.

In 2018 we partnered with the College of Medicine and Guildhall School of Music and Drama to present the second National Arts in Health Conference and Showcase, on Thursday 19 April at the Guildhall’s beautiful new hall, Milton Court.

The event was for health decision makers and focused on how the arts can contribute to current health priorities.

2018 guest speakers included: Dame Darcey Bussell DBE, Professor Gillian Leng NICE Deputy Chief Executive & Director of Health and Social Care, Sir Simon Wessely, Regius Professor of Psychiatry, King’s College London, Dr Mike Hunter, NHS England Associate National Clinical Director for Mental Health, Professor Martin Vernon NHS England National Clinical Director for Older People and Dr Michael Dixon, NHS England National Clinical Champion for Social Prescription.

As well as the showcase, the day included strategy inspiration from health and arts leaders.

The day was facilitated by Vivienne Parry OBE, Science writer and broadcaster.

Our first conference took place at the Southbank Centre in 2016.