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Sharon Phillips, Regional Development Manager, presents at the Sussex Creative Network launch event

Lectures aren't usually as fast as the rapid-fire presentations delivered by Sussex academics and other staff at the launch of the University's Creative Network this week (Wednesday 25 November). 

The eight speakers had just six minutes and 40 seconds each to 'pitch' their roles or research to an audience of arts organisations, practitioners, funding bodies and businesses from around the South East. 

The format, called Pecha Kucha (Japanese for chit-chat), allows like- minded people to share ideas and to network. Held in the hi-tech InQbate Creativity Zone, it was the launch event of the Creative Network, which aims to match up University expertise with arts organisations and practitioners around the region. It is hoped that such events will lead to collaborations and joint research projects. 

Rob Phillips, Associate Tutor in Engineering and Design, who spoke about design's potential for impact beyond the aesthetic, said: "I'm really pleased to have been involved in the event. It's paid back instantly in the form of lots of potential contacts as the fast pace and composition of the audience led quickly to really open conversation.

"I think it should be rolled out beyond the 'creatives' right across campus!" 

The event was held in association with Pecha Kucha Night Brighton and Brighton and Hove City Council's 'Creative Brighton' group. 

Pecha Kucha is a highly successful global 'movement' that has spread to over 236 cities across the world. Participants present their work in 20 slides lasting 20 seconds each (totalling six minutes and 40 seconds). 

Find out more at the Pecha Kucha website