The London Art as Cultural Diplomacy Conference 2013

“Contemporary International Dialogue: Art-based Developments and Culture Shared between Nations”

London; August 21st - 24th, 2013
Held Parallel to “The Notting Hill Carnival 2013”

Conference Agenda

The London Art as Cultural Diplomacy Conference 2013 will focus and explore the employment of art in Cultural Diplomacy from a number of angles, showcasing a variety of perspectives and examples on past, contemporary and future artistic initiatives for the dissemination of culture. Emphasis will be placed on international and interregional cultural exchange and the effects that globalization has had on cultural integrity and conservation.

The conference will also analyze the theory that art can serve as a platform for Cultural Diplomacy, particularly in regard to its universal nature. A diverse range of case studies from across the world, featuring cinema, music, visual arts, photography, sport and the media, will be closely examined and will offer examples of the use of the arts as Cultural Diplomacy in practice as well as in theory. The aim of the Conference is to develop ideas and establish initiatives in order to promote the use of art as a sustainable vehicle for international dialogue and to explore art’s potential as a tool for economic and social development.

Speakers from a wide range of relevant fields will gather in London with the aim of discussing and debating pertinent issues in relation to the use of art in foreign policy, cultural institutions, and civil society. The conference will present a unique opportunity for speakers and participants from a variety of fields to gather together and debate the use of art as a cultural diplomacy tool. Artists, film directors, musicians, politicians, diplomats, practitioners, and activists will offer their perspectives on this issue and discuss how art can be an effective diplomatic instrument at the local, national, and global levels.

The Conference will focus in particular on the following areas:
  • New Trends in Cultural Expression, including Contemporary and Experimental Art Forms
  • The Role of Artistic Expression in Providing a Platform for Strengthening Intercultural Relations
  • The Use of Culture and Communication in National Foreign Policies
  • Government Initiatives for Encouraging the Dissemination of Art
  • The Global Responsibility to Promote Cultural Understanding
  • Art as a Stimulus for Intercultural Dialogue: The Role of Art and Culture in Fostering a Global Community
  • Artistic Expression and Exchange as a Means of Social Engagement and Education
  • Social Media and Art in the 21st Century: Cultivating a Global Community Through Sharing and Exchanging
  • International Art Festivals and the Exchange of World Cultures
  • Modern Day Museums in the 21st Century and beyond: Collective Memory and the Importance of Cultural and Artistic Reflection