Saturday & Sunday,
March 27 & 28
Saturday & Sunday, April 3 & 4
Cultural Diplomacy
combines statecraft with the artistic and cultural life
of an organization or a nation. It is achieved through
myriad exchanges, both formal and informal. In fact, governments,
agencies and educational institutions often work behind
the scenes to draw connections between regions and peoples.
These connections enhance greater understanding and create
bonds which, ideally, are meaningful and lasting.
This
conference is an investigation into the meaning and
nature of cultural diplomacy, both over time and in
the present day. It is also an investigation into the
multiple factors that lead to a more thorough understanding
of the term “cultural
diplomacy.” In particular, the event will focus
on the roles of education and the arts, and how they are
used as tools in the diplomat´s case to reach across
borders. Teachers College at Columbia University and
the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy are working together
to address these issues by inviting students, academics,
critics, artists, diplomats and professionals in the
field to present and discuss diverse perspectives.
The
format is both lively and interactive, combining lectures,
panel discussions, films, slide shows and small focus
group discussions. A special event will also be presented:
a live video conference featuring musical and cultural
exchange between students in Sweden and the U.S.
The
event takes place over two weekends: the first focuses
on models of cultural diplomacy through education, and
the second is dedicated to cultural diplomacy in the arts.
Significant contributions from organizations and individuals
who work in this area, include but are not limited to: