- Culture is politically controlled, and we want to work to increase artistic freedom, says Eline Sigfusson.
She is the project manager for the think tank A / nordi / c, which was launched at the Book Fair on Thursday.
It describes itself as politically independent and as the first think tank in the Nordic region to focus entirely on cultural policy.
Since the cultural policies of the Nordic countries have both similarities and differences, it is hoped to be able to learn from each other and pursue common issues.
An issue that is high on the think tank's agenda right now is artistic freedom.
Culture creators adapt to requirements
The subject has been much discussed, especially since the Agency for Cultural Analysis published a report which showed that cultural creators adapt their creation based on what they believe is required to receive financial support from the institutions.
- It can be the importance of gender equality, LGBTQ or national minorities ... issues that may not primarily be about the artistic quality but which are important for contributors and the public, says Eva Bergquist who is strategic advisor for the think tank and head of administration for the cultural administration in Stockholm.
According to Eline Sigfusson and Eva Bergquist, one needs to look back in history to understand why cultural life has become increasingly politically controlled.
In the video, you can see how cultural policy has developed from the 50s onwards.