Open Platform

Do you have an idea for a small participatory event that you would like to hold in our Reading Room?

Open Platform is an exciting new events strand where we invite you to submit your own event proposal for a one-hour slot in our Reading Room. We’re looking for proposals with a clear connection to the Reading Room subject matter, focused on low-tech activity that involves an audience.

What you can expect from Wellcome Collection

• We will pay for reasonable travel and materials agreed in advance, but we won’t cover any additional fees or overheads.
• We will discuss with you what it means to create content in a public building and to be sensitive to the different people that may attend your event.
• As these events are small (up to twenty people), we won’t supply any AV or other equipment.
• You will have to attract and sustain your audience’s attention throughout your activity and whilst we cannot guarantee you an audience due to the fluctuation of visitor numbers, we will promote your event in-house on the day.You will need to read and abide by our Reading Room Rules and Health and Safety guidelines.

What we know works

Past successful events have included:

• Small discussions that allow the audience to participate
• Poetry readings and discussions
• Drawing workshops
• Explorations of Reading Room objects or archive material.

Wellcome Collection is a venue that explores subjects from a range of perspectives and opinions, underlined by politeness and consideration.

How to propose an event

1. Come along to the Reading Room on the times and dates listed below. Our Events Officer will consider up to ten proposals on each day, and spend 20 minutes talking through your idea. Come prepared to outline what you want to do and why, as well as the intended role of the audience.
2. We will give you a brief proposal form to fill in, outlining the nature of your event and acknowledging that you have read, and will abide by, our Reading Room Rules and Health and Safety guidelines.
3. All written proposals will be considered by our Reading Room Working Group at the end of each month and successful applicants quickly notified. You should be prepared to hold your event within two months of us accepting your proposal.
4. If you are unsuccessful, you may re-submit your proposal once more.

Drop-in dates for event proposals

• Friday 15 July 15.00-17.00
• Thursday 21 July 17.00-19.00
• Thursday 8 September 17.00-19.00
• Wednesday 14 September 16.00-18.00
• Tuesday 20 September 15.00-17.00