Chelsea Arts Festival

About

Chelsea Arts Festival is a new festival, celebrating modern storytelling in London, and showcases Chelsea’s rich literary heritage, spotlighting its place in the capital’s vibrant cultural landscape. The programme is extensive, and will take place across Chelsea’s key artistic institutions: Saatchi Gallery, Cadogan Hall and Royal Court Theatre.

Partnering with Cadogan, the festival’s main programme will encompass all arts disciplines, from music, theatre, dance and film to podcasting, literature and the visual arts; and will feature both the brightest names and emerging talent from page, stage and screen. Elsewhere, Chelsea’s streets will come alive with free outdoor performances across King’s Road, Duke of York Square, Sloane Street and Sloane Square.

Saturday 20^th September

10.30-11.30am – Calculating the Arts Dividend: Why Culture Matters with Darren Henley & Samira Ahmed

Join this compelling conversation about the transformative power of the arts, exploring Darren’s book ‘The Arts Dividend’ – an examination of how creativity shapes our society and economy. 

Darren Henley, Chief Executive of Arts Council England and influential cultural leader, brings decades of experience championing arts across education, broadcasting and policymaking, demonstrating how creative investment delivers profound returns for communities and individuals.

Also leading this discussion is distinguished broadcaster and journalist Samira Ahmed, whose incisive interviews and cultural programming have made her one of the most trusted voices on the arts. Known for her work on Radio 4’s Front Row and her fearless advocacy for creative freedom, Ahmed brings both journalistic rigour and passion to discussions about culture’s place in public life.

Together, they will unpack the evidence behind the Arts Dividend – revealing how investment in creativity enriches souls, but further drives innovation, builds stronger communities and delivers economic benefits.

12.15-1.15pm – A Creative Renaissance?: AI & the Future of Imagination with Tigris Li & Omar Karim

This session will explore creativity in the age of artificial intelligence (AI) with two leading voices at the forefront of this revolutionary intersection – Tigris Li and Omar Kalim. They will consider the future of creativity in the age of AI, exploring the promise and complexity of this technological revolution.

Tigris Li is an Artist & Creative Technologist grounded in reimagining technology as a catalyst for meaningful human connections. Looking at the relationship between humans and technology to foster emotional intelligence, Tigris designs installations, electronic hardware and experiences that evoke curiosity, co-creation and play.

Omar Karim is an AI Image an Filmmakr, and Creative Director with over 14 years of experience in advertising and technology. Known for his innovative approach to storytelling, he has worked with brands such as Burberry and Beats By Dre. 

5.30-6.30pm – Jack Edwards’ Inkling Book Club

The ‘internet’s resident librarian’, Jack Edwards, hosts the first live Inklings Book Club Event. Jack has transformed the way young people discover and discuss literature through his popular YouTube channel. His infectious enthusiasm for books – from contemporary fiction to classic literature – has built one of the most vibrant online reading communities. He is known for his thoughtful reviews and genuine love of storytelling, becoming a trusted voice for readers seeking their next good book.

This Inklings Book Club event is an intimate celebration of reading, complete with Jack’s trademark wit, literary insights and book recommendations that will have you rushing to the nearest bookshop. Whether you’re a long-time follower or new to his literary work, this is a chance to experience Jack’s passion for books in person, with Jack in conversation with a special guest author. 

Further information and the full Festival schedule can be found on their website here.

Please note, all events are ticketed and must be pre-booked to attend. Events take place at the Gallery on Friday and Saturday only.