Fur eine neue Agenda der Kulturpolitik

The Austrian cultural sector is facing an existential crisis due to the pandemic, and this book highlights the urgency of renegotiating the relationship between the cultural sector and wider society through artists, mediators, and users. Michael Wimmer sets out to find a contemporary cultural policy that ensures art and culture are given the status they deserve in society.

Format: Hardback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 05 July 2022
Publisher: De Gruyter

The Austrian cultural sector is currently grappling with its most significant existential crisis since the Second Republic. The conceptual foundations of Austrian cultural policy, which were established in the 1970s, are reaching their limits due to the ongoing pandemic. This book emphasizes the urgent need to renegotiate the relationship between the cultural sector and broader society through the involvement of artists, mediators, and users.

In collaboration with several esteemed cultural observers, Michael Wimmer endeavors to develop a contemporary cultural policy. His primary objective is to secure the rightful recognition and status of art and culture within society.

This book is conceived as a dialectical polemic, aimed at initiating a broader and more comprehensive discussion about cultural policy. The central aspects of a new agenda for cultural policy are negotiated to foster a more comprehensive understanding and exploration of this critical field.

In the following paragraphs, we will delve into the history, present, and future of cultural policy, while also advocating for a broader and more inclusive discussion of this important topic. Contributions from Sylvia Amann, Sabine Breitwieser, Veronica Kaup-Hasler, Aslı Kışlal, Birgit Mandel, Christoph Thun-Hohenstein, and other esteemed experts provide valuable insights and perspectives on the subject.

The history of cultural policy in Austria can be traced back to the late 19th century, when the country began to establish institutions and policies aimed at promoting cultural development and preservation. These early efforts were driven by a desire to counter the influence of German culture and promote a distinct Austrian identity. Over the years, cultural policy has evolved and expanded to encompass various sectors, including art, literature, music, film, and theater.

In the post-World War II era, Austria experienced a period of rapid economic growth and social change, which led to increased government investment in the cultural sector. The establishment of the Austrian Federal Ministry of Culture in 1957 marked a significant milestone in the development of cultural policy in the country. This ministry played a crucial role in promoting cultural diversity, supporting artists and cultural institutions, and fostering international cultural exchange.

However, as the 21st century has progressed, the challenges facing the Austrian cultural sector have become increasingly complex. The pandemic has further exacerbated these challenges, leading to a significant decline in revenue and a loss of jobs in the cultural sector. This has placed a significant strain on the sector's ability to maintain its infrastructure and programming.

At the same time, there is a growing recognition of the importance of the cultural sector in promoting social cohesion, economic development, and cultural exchange. This has led to calls for a more proactive and strategic approach to cultural policy, one that emphasizes the role of artists, mediators, and users in shaping cultural policy and its implementation.

One of the key challenges facing the Austrian cultural sector is the need to adapt to changing societal trends and technological advancements. The rise. The digital revolution has transformed the way we consume and engage with art and culture, and the cultural sector must find ways to leverage these technologies to reach new audiences and promote cultural exchange.

Another challenge is the need to address the issue of cultural inequality and diversity. Cultural policy must work to ensure that all voices and perspectives are heard and represented in the cultural sector, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. This requires a commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in all aspects of cultural programming and policy.

In conclusion, the Austrian cultural sector is facing its greatest existential crisis of the Second Republic. The pandemic has highlighted the urgent need to renegotiate the relationship between the cultural sector and wider society through the involvement of artists, mediators, and users. This book provides a valuable contribution to this discussion by advocating for a more proactive and strategic approach to cultural policy. By promoting cultural diversity, supporting artists and cultural institutions, and fostering international cultural exchange, the Austrian cultural sector can continue to thrive and play a vital role in shaping the future of society.

Weight: 1135g
Dimension: 240 x 170 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783110791624