6. WHOSE CULTURE AND VISION IS IT ANYWAY?

Margate Open Space Event Group 2
Session 3

Discussion led by Phil Oldfield

Key discussion points/themes:
- The cultural vision for Margate is tied in with institutions, such as the Council, and their vision of culture and regeneration.
- Thanet culture is tied in with the business culture. Art is under economic pressure and is increasingly commercial in order to meet the demands of businesses.
- There is no cohesive idea of what culture is in Margate. It is diverse and formed by people passing through as well as residents. These multiple cultural ideas and diversity are positive but an overarching cultural strategy is also needed.
- Margate needs more risk taking in culture and art – risk taking is the only way to grow, but how do we allow this in our community?
- Lack of belief in Margate by its residents – people no longer perceive its assets and potential. People need to visualise regeneration.

Action Points:
1. Communication – the artistic community needs a voice and there needs to be increased communication between institutions and artists.
2. Have to create a place where businesses and people want to live and increase footfall by use of arts.
3. Margate needs an arts festival with popular icons and popular culture that will engage everyone, including the marginalised.