Sheffield to host key creative industry conference Offset

Offset design and creative conference will take place at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre in September 2016. Photo: Brid O'Donovan

The 10th edition of Offset, originally Dublin’s creative festival, will take place at the Crucible Theatre on October 21 and 22.

The conference is a key event in the calendar of design and creative industries and will bring in visitors from across the UK and Ireland - as well as many of the 14,000-plus creative workers in the city region.

Sheffield Council deputy leader Leigh Bramall said: “Offset is a gem of a conference to attract to Sheffield.

“Conferences are a great way to showcase Sheffield’s business credentials to a domestic and international audience and Offset will do just that whilst also helping us to grow the profile of the many creative firms that operate here.”

The conference will form part of Sheffield’s Catalyst Festival of Creativity, running until November, and be a main feature of Sheffield’s Design Week, from October 22 to 30.

Sheffield Hallam University is the conference’s key sponsor.

Offset design and creative conference will take place at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre in September 2016. Photo: Neil Dorgan

Coun Bramall called the conference a ‘great addition to an already impressive line-up of business conventions,’ adding: “Hosting it in the city centre will enable us to showcase our vibrant offering. With the added benefit of this conference forming part of the wider Catalyst Festival of Creativity and Design Week, it’s a major coup for the city.”

Offset joint creative director Bren Byrne said: “Offering our audience insights into new innovations in both practice and thinking in the design space is at the core of what we aim to provide.

“Not only has Sheffield got an incredible design legacy but also they are at the forefront of a very exciting international movement that recognises the importance of creativity and design to the future success of a contemporary city.

“We are delighted to be bringing Offset to Sheffield as our new UK home.”