At the Arendal Week (Arendalsuka) in 2022, the Norwegian Freedom of Expression Commission launched its report. It emphasized that Norwegian arts and culture systems should engage internationally in the work for freedom of expression and cultural rights. At the same time we have experienced that our local environment is becoming more international due to immigration and internationalization of the business sector. From this backdrop cultural institutions in Arendal have established an initiative, Art27Arendal: for artistic rights, freedom of expression, democracy and internationalization.
Existing cultural infrastructure struggles to keep pace with the evolving demands of the more diverse community.
1.1. Arendal's Cultural Landscape
Arendal, like many other communities in Norway, is experiencing rapid internationalization. The town's cultural sector, traditionally oriented towards Norwegian language and heritage, now faces the challenge of meeting the needs of a more diverse population. With increased immigration and the globalization of the business sector, Arendal's local environment has become significantly more international. Despite these changes, the existing cultural infrastructure often struggles to keep pace with the evolving demands of this more diverse community.
1.2. National Emphasis on Freedom of Expression and Cultural Rights
At the 2022 Arendal Week (Arendalsuka), the Norwegian Freedom of Expression Commission launched a report stressing the importance of international engagement in promoting freedom of expression and cultural rights. This report underscored the need for Norwegian arts and cultural systems to actively participate in global efforts to uphold these values. In alignment with this national directive, Mimeta formed an initiative called Art27Arendal, which aims to address the local implications of these broader international goals.
1.3. The Role of Art27Arendal
Art27Arendal is committed to promoting artistic rights, freedom of expression, democracy, and internationalization within the municipality's cultural sector. Recognizing the challenges posed by rapid internationalization, the initiative seeks to create a more inclusive and globally connected cultural environment in Arendal. Art27Arendal aims to ensure that the cultural sector remains a driving force for democratization and social cohesion in the local community, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of its residents.
2. Project Objectives
2.1. Support Local Internationalization
The primary objective of Art27Arendal is to support the internationalization of Arendal's cultural sector. This involves adapting cultural programs to reflect the municipality's increasingly diverse population and fostering greater international collaboration among artists and cultural institutions.
2.2. Promote Artistic Rights and Freedom of Expression
Art27Arendal will work to safeguard artistic rights and freedom of expression, ensuring that all residents, regardless of background, can participate in cultural production. This commitment aligns with the recommendations of the Norwegian Freedom of Expression Commission and reinforces Arendal's role as a community that highligts these fundamental rights.
2.3. Enhance Cultural Participation
The initiative aims to increase cultural participation among Arendal's international population, ensuring that the town's cultural offerings are accessible and relevant to all residents. This will involve outreach efforts to engage new community members and encourage their involvement in local cultural activities.
3. Expected Outcomes
3.1. Increased Diversity in programming:
A more diverse range of cultural programs and events that reflect the international makeup of Arendal's population.
3.2. Strengthened International Networks:
Enhanced collaboration between Arendal's cultural institutions and international partners.
3.3. Enhance Cultural Participation:
Higher levels of engagement in cultural activities among Arendal's international residents.
4. Protection of Artistic Rights:
A local cultural sector that actively upholds and promotes artistic rights and freedom of expression.
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