GCDN Annual Convening – Athens 2024

Culture, and particularly cultural programming, significantly influences the design and management of public spaces. Cities aspire to cultivate inclusive environments resonating with diverse minds, practices, and identities. As cultural institutions seek meaningful engagement beyond enclosed structures, questions arise: What cultural approach should they envision for programming? Is there a trade-off between high and low culture? Can consumption and pure enjoyment coexist? Moreover, can public spaces be catalysts for experimentation while appealing to a broad spectrum across socio-economic and geographic backgrounds? This session critically examines fostering engagement and inclusion through popular and contemporary cultural programming in public spaces.