Valletta think-tank imagines the future
A think-tank, Valletta 2018 Foundation, came to fruition yesterday as Valletta bids to become the European Capital of Culture in seven years’ time.
The European Commission has designated two countries as potential ECoC hosts in 2018: Malta and The Netherlands, where four cities are competing for the title.
It is up to the Commission to confirm whether the island deserves the award. The results of the bid will be known officially during 2013.
Speaking at the “Imagine 18” public conference yesterday, Valletta mayor Alexei Dingli said should Valletta be awarded the title, events would sprout out to other localities.
“It is also about the woman in Għajnsielem making lace and about the housewife in Mġarr cooking Euro-Mediterranean dishes,” Dr Dingli said.
ECoC was about celebrating artistic qualities, making the island the EU centre for culture of innovation and perhaps even re-opening the capital’s indoor market.
A line of speakers spoke of their vision, underlining the need for creativity, culture and innovation.
Yet, as many pointed out, ECoC was more about achieving long-term goals than one where the nation glitters for a period of time. These included economic activity related to arts and culture, tourism and local business. It was also a chance to regenerate cities, foster local community, give new vitality to their cultural life and raise their international profile.
Malta was home to 71 theatres and 66 museums and boasted some 90 band clubs and 25,000 active band enthusiasts.
As a country which mainly relied on tourism, Mr Attard said the culture sector was worth investing in since 38 per cent of tourists list culture as the reason for visiting Malta.
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Victor Pulis
Jun 21st 2011, 13:37
Yet, as many pointed out, ECoC was more about achieving long-term goals than one where the nation glitters for a period of time. These included economic activity related to arts and culture, tourism and local business.
Is there a magic switch somewhere which can be used to 'activate' art and culture perhaps?! These things must be cultivated with time. They are not switched on and off just for the occasion. They must be part of everyday life.
Malta was home to 71 theatres and 66 museums and boasted some 90 band clubs and 25,000 active band enthusiasts.
66 museums and yet we can'tt boast of a national museum of contemporary art. Malta must be the only country in the world to lack this important cultural venue. Oh well, we have been told that underneath the new parliament between the stilts we will have a museum of political history. As if we need it badly!!
So mant amendments have been done to the original plans, can't the experts rethink this idea and give something to the public which will at least meet with their approval?
Mr Lawrence Fenech
Jun 21st 2011, 10:13
When you think as you have done it sends a shiver down my spine. Your thinking has spoilt Valletta.