Culture tipped to unlock EU innovation

Report of a study 'The impact of culture on creativity', a study prepared for the European Commission: DG Education and Culture by KEA European Affairs.

Creativity is a powerful catch phrase. In Western societies it epitomises success, the modern, trends for novelty and excitement. Whether linked to individuals, enterprises, cities or regions creativity establishes immediate empathy, and conveys an image of dynamism. Creativity is a positive word in a society constantly aspiring to innovation and “progress”.

Culture is the general expression of humanity, the expression of its creativity. Culture is linked to meaning,
knowledge, talents, industries, civilisation and values. The objective of the study is to have a better understanding of the influence of culture on creativity, a motor of economic and social innovation. Does music, visual art, cinema and poetry for instance contribute to creativity as a way to stimulate job creation, economic prosperity, learning and social cohesion? What is the impact of artistic creation on innovation?

Why do companies want to be associated with culture and art? What is the social function of artistic and
cultural creativity? The report develops the concept of culture-based creativity, stemming from art and cultural productions or activities which nurture innovation, and going beyond artistic achievements or “creative content” feeding broadband networks, computers and consumer electronic equipments.

KEA European Affairs: The impact of culture on creativity, June 2009 http://www.keanet.eu/impactculturecreativityfull.pdf

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