As part of its multi-annual programme, New Solidarities, co-funded by the European Union, On the Move organizes the Cultural Mobility Webinar series, providing a shared space for collective reflection on issues related to the international circulation of artists, cultural professionals, and their works.
This edition of the Cultural Mobility Webinar focuses on the role of cities in fostering international cultural mobility. In particular, it examines how municipalities develop travel grants, bilateral and multilateral exchange programs, and other initiatives that support artists and cultural professionals. These city-led schemes create opportunities to expand careers, build relationships with stakeholders across different regions of the world, and strengthen artistic practice and long-term sustainability.
Through a wide range of programs—many of which remain under-promoted or insufficiently recognized—cities have played an active role in supporting their local cultural ecosystems. Their actions contribute to increased international visibility and recognition, sometimes through ambitious cultural export strategies, as well as by hosting international peers, experimenting with models of cultural hospitality, and defending the diversity of cultural expressions. Such initiatives help ensure access to a plurality of creative practices, artistic forms, and cultural heritage.
Together with participants, the panelists and moderator will discuss successful initiatives implemented through flagship frameworks such as the European Capitals of Culture (ECoC) program, while also drawing on other inspiring examples. These include the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, European and international city twinning programs, and networks of cities actively supporting and hosting artists at risk.
Speakers
- Kelly Diapouli, artistic director, Larnaka 2030, member of Culture Next (Cyprus)
- Julie Hervé, head of culture and democracy, Eurocities (Belgium)
- Jordi Pascual, coordinator, United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) Culture Committee (Spain)
With moderator Dr Beatriz Garcia, expert in international cultural policy and mega-events (United Kingdom).
