Eventlist

Location: Level M, 168 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne
Date: 13 November 2014, 7:00pm
Presenter: Professor Nikos Papastergiadis
Entry: Free

Synopsis

In the 1970s the establishment of precincts was directed solely toward the conservation of architectural heritage areas. However, in the past 15 years over $1 billion have been invested in the establishment of arts and cultural precincts in the CBD of Melbourne.

During the same period there has been a massive spike in the number of festivals and public art events that define the annual cultural calendar. This boom in the building of arts infrastructure and the growth of the cultural sector is a global phenomenon.

Governments around the world have invested substantial funds in large infrastructure projects to develop the cultural sector as a force for economic growth and social inclusion. This has resulted in the clustering together and expansion of specialist arts institutions, as well as the conversion of ethnic quarters into exotic cultural precincts.

This boom is far from over, for it has been estimated that in the next decade over $250 billion will be spent in the building of arts and cultural precincts around the world.

But is the precinct model already outdated, and, is this huge infrastructure adaptable for emergent forms of cultural practice? What are the implications of the new conditions of cultural production and public engagement for minority community like the Greeks in Melbourne?

Also during the evening:

• Certificates of participation will be presented
• The "2015 Greek History and Culture Seminars" programme will be launched.