Elana Castle discovers that the conversation about the cultural future of Sydney is well and truly alive and kicking.

‘Creative City’, the City of Sydney’s first cultural policy discussion paper has recently been released and is now available to the public.  The paper has been structured to initiate and develop discussions with Sydney-siders about the cultural life they want for the city.

Panellists Nicole Durling and Charles Firth at Sydney’s State Theatre

“It’s a timely release, given that the Federal and State Government are about to launch their own cultural policy papers,” explains Rachel Healy, the city of Sydney’s executive manager of culture.  “Since the launch of Sustainable Sydney in 2008, we’ve been developing a roadmap for investment in a cultural Sydney.  But every now and then we feel that is is important to check-in with the Sydney community to assess our progress.  We also want to connect with a broader audience, explore untapped opportunities and explore new ideas.”

Carol Coletta, guest speaker and President of ArtPlace America

As expected, many elements of the paper are in the domain of design and are reflected in the many speakers that have been invited to the associated range of City Talks lectures.  Scheduled throughout the year, at six week intervals, City Talks are held at the State Theatre, drawing large audiences and influential speakers on a varied range of topics related to the city.  “We also offer City Conversations, a complimentary series, slightly smaller scale which focus on particular projects and subjects,” adds Healy.  “For example, the most recent one focussed on the progress of development at Green Square.”

Compere Adam Spencer with panellists

“The city is constantly assessing where and how the city’s budget for cultural development will be allocated in future years,” adds Healy.  “It’s a very exciting time for the cultural life of Sydney as the roadmap for the city’s cultural future takes shape.”

Sydney City Talks

sydneyyoursay.com.au