AAAE 2017

Cultural Governance and Global Contexts
Annick Schramme, Ian W. King

The current trend for revising the manner of financial support globally is placing increasing pressure and thereby scrutiny on the quality and effectiveness of strategic decision-making and management practices in the arts and cultural sector.
The pressure to maximise the quality of practice in this sector is increasing and therefore develop optimal practice is a global priority. So, in these circumstances, we want to maximise our understandings of cultural governance worldwide.

The resulting research questions that emerged include the following: If these are the dominant locations – does this suggest that globally our understanding of Cultural Governance is dominated by a ‘one-size’ fits all mentality? Thereby leading to the inevitable consequence – is this in the best interest of the arts and cultural institutions across the globe?

Shifts in How we Produce Cultural Activities and Create New Spaces: Comparison Between Spanish and US Case Studies
Dr. Elena SV Flys

A current topic of concern for the Arts Manager is that of Audience Engagement. Many studies support the idea that changes in performing arts consumption are taking place, and that audience members are searching for a new way of interacting with the arts. Perhaps in a country like Spain, the tax rise for cultural activities triggered the emergence of new and unconventional scenic spaces. However, the appearance of off-off-theater or site specific performances has also occurred in areas of United States. Possibly, what is changing is not only where audience members encounter art, but also the way people consume cultural activities.

Across the Pond: trends in international cultural relations and engagement by US and UK arts and cultural organizations
Aimee Fullman, Carla Figueira

The aim of this paper is to provide an insight into the current practices, challenges and opportunities for US and UK arts organizations engaged in international cultural relations that illuminates the changing human capital needs of the labour markets in this area. Our research is based on a survey of UK and US organizations engaged in international cultural exchanges and arts programming. Outcomes will allow us to discuss key competencies needed within organizations and gaps of knowledge that could be addressed by future arts and cultural management higher education programs.


Session Chair: Alan Salzenstein