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Bid book of Leeuwarden
In reading what the panel selecting the ECoC for 2018 stated about Leeuwarden, it says already a lot that the panel was impressed by the changes made in between the pre-selection and final selection phase. Hence it is significant on how Leeuwarden introduces itself, namely with a thanks to the jury for giving it the opportunity to reflect in the meantime upon the recommendations which were made. The opening paragraph ends with this admittance that "some important changes were required."
One aspect is pointed out right away, namely that its 'grass roots movement' was broaden to include national and internaitonal cultural operators. This was exemplifie in the eyes of the panel by showing, for instance, how youth in various European countries supported the bid of Leeuwarden.
To enhance their capacity, they did seek the advise of national and international artists and cultural operators.
In terms of budget so as to be able to support a long term agenda of development which incorporates besides cultural policy as well other policy measures linked to the economy, society and the envrionment, there was attained an agreement about the total budget amounting to 850 Million Euros.
Under the independent leadership of Mr Oeds Westerhof, the bid was drafted with the help of volunteers and citizens.
The Lwd2018 approach to culture - to be found at:
http://www.2018.nl/Portals/0/v4_ONLINE_BID2_LWD2018.pdf
- To create ‘chemistry in cultural test tubes’ is our method to change minds: be that putting together a farmer and an artist, a Polish worker and a local resident, a fountain builder and a hotel owner, a factory owner and a game designer.“
- At its core, our cultural programme is fit for purpose. In addressing our themes, we involve artists, scientists, citizens and institutions alike. Through an interdisciplinary approach we harness the energy and creativity necessary to address our core themes from multiple perspectives.
- It is an action-driven, open-minded decision-making process; an organisational model informed by our ideals of open Mienskip.
- We see culture not as a means to indulge in elitist culture but to embrace all kinds of artistic and cultural expressions.
- Our definition of culture is a broad and inclusive one.
- Furthermore, our approach takes into account new ways of consumption and production of cultural products. In the 21st century: podcasts, vodcasts, 48-hour film making competitions, open platforms for all kinds of arts, crowdfunding for films and other arts projects, online photography contests, and crowdsourced arts projects. The border between those who produce culture and those who consume disappears as it evolves. Our bid reflects this reality.
- Lwd2018 aims to harness this development in order to involve citizens in the ECoC experience.
- It is increasingly clear that culture is a significant motor for innovation.
- Lwd2018 will generate new ideas and provide a platform for the untapped creative potential that will serve all fields of our society and economy so well.
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