Networking at The Minories: The Art of Connection

Join us for Business, Banksy & Bold Conversations

Join us for an exclusive after-hours networking experience at The Minories, where you’ll be among the first to experience Out of Line: Banksy and the Art of Dissent – one of Essex’s most talked-about new exhibitions. Having opened just 10 days before the event, attendees will be some of the exhibition’s earliest visitors.

Combining business networking with cultural engagement and community impact, this unique event offers the perfect opportunity to make valuable new connections while supporting the incredible work of SNAP. All profits from the event will be donated to the charity, helping it continue its vital work supporting children and young people aged 0–25 with additional needs or disabilities and their families, across Essex, Thurrock and Southend.

SNAP currently supports over 5,000 families across Essex, partnering with parents to provide compassion, guidance and hope through steadfast support and tailored resources for the whole family. Crucially, no diagnosis or professional referral is required to access SNAP’s services, ensuring support is available whenever families need it most.

Attendees will enjoy private access to the exhibition, featuring 28 original works by Banksy, and an exclusive opportunity to hear from collection owner John Brandler, whose insights and personal stories provide a unique perspective beyond the exhibition itself.

John is one of the UK’s leading Banksy collectors and experts, with over 20 years of experience acquiring, preserving and exhibiting Banksy’s work. This special exhibition features a rare collection of original Banksy artworks from John’s personal collection, offering a unique opportunity to view authentic pieces by one of the world’s most celebrated street artists. John will share his unique insights into Banksy, the artworks and the stories behind them, before taking questions from attendees.

Whether you’re looking to expand your network, strengthen existing relationships or enjoy a truly unique cultural experience, this promises to be an evening of inspiration, insight and opportunity.

Date:  Wednesday 21 October  5.30pm – 7.30pm 
Venue:  The Minories Gallery, 74 High Street, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1UE
Cost:  Members £35 + VAT  |  Non-Members £50 + VAT

Agenda – Subject to change

  5.30pm – Registration, Welcome drinks & Networking
6.00pm – Welcome from Essex Chambers of Commerce
6.05pm – Introduction from Emma Howe, Director of The Minories
6.10pm – Welcome from exhibition owner, John Brandler of Brandler Galleries
6.25pm – Welcome from SNAP Charity
6.30pm – Exclusive after-hours access to the Banksy exhibition & Networking
7.30pm – Event ends

John Brandler is one of the UK’s leading Banksy collectors and experts, with more than 40 years of experience in the art world.

Born into a family of auctioneers and dealers, John began buying and selling antiques while still at school before discovering a passion for art that would shape his career.

As founder of  Brandler Galleries, he has built a reputation for championing exceptional art, from Modern British masters to some of the most sought-after names in contemporary street art.

Today, he is best known for his remarkable collection of works by Banksy, Blek Le Rat and Pure Evil. His expertise, passion and engaging storytelling offer audiences unique insights into the artist, the artworks and the stories behind them.