Towards the title of Capital of Culture

by Ms Madeleine Evers

The specific impact of cultural policy is dependent on implementation by creative individuals, groups and networks.

Kalmar, is striving towards sustainable development, both cultural, economic, and environmental. This goal connects divergent interests and fills the so called "grey zone" between culture and the business community with a common purpose. More creativity exists in the business sector than is identified. Economic interests, though often unacknowledged, are the driving force in cultural projects. Building cultural bridges and creating meetings across borders is the city's goal in the "European Capital of Culture" project, a title towards which Kalmar Region aspires. The strong connection to our Baltic neighbours is highly valued and we look forward to cooperation with Riga in this process. The significance of our joint participation will reach far beyond 2014. It will make a lasting contribution to European cultural interaction, sustainable development and the quality of life. In Kalmar, as in whole Sweden, cultural issues have long held a position of prominence on the political agenda. The traditionally close ties with UN Conventions concerning human rights, the fight against poverty, promotion of cultural diversity and youth and gender equality issues ensure a particularly egalitarian focus in cultural policy making. The economic effects of these policies must be seen in terms of long term contribution rather than specific impact alone. 'Culture' is a concept, with wide ranging implications, which not only refers to the above but encompasses all of the Arts.

Cultural production in the form of 'cultural goods' is indisputably a part of the marketplace and a substantial contributor to economic growth, as is the cultural service sector. In Kalmar Region cultural goods and services are predominantly linked to existing preconditions, such as cultural heritage and agrarian lifestyle providing urban population with recreational opportunities and attracting investment in cultural tourism. It is evident that 'quality of life' in Kalmar not only has significance for tourism and social sustainability, but also attracts corporate investment. Much publicized recent venture by the Chinese corporation Fanerdun Group in a "Wholesale Commodities Trade Centre" in Kalmar testifies to this fact. It is a sizable economic boost for Kalmar, but it also enriches our architectural and cultural landscape. In cooperation with the region of Changxing in China a "China Culture Week" is planned in 2008.