GEORGIA MANOLOPOULOU
Museologist and Curator of Public Engagement,
Archaeological Museum of Patras, Ministry of Culture

^{2022–2023 Fulbright Greek Salburg Global Seminar Participant Host: Schloss Leopoldskron, Salzburg, Austria}

Culture is a soft power that can shape the identity of future societies and educate the citizens of the world.  Arts and Culture is a place to gain an understanding of the world, and a catalyst for social, economic, and spiritual prosperity. Professionals and practitioners should develop and imply innovative strategies and policies that communicate high-level knowledge about the world’s heritage to reform the so-called cultural citizenship.

The broad field of the sector involves an interdisciplinary of studies, and engaging practical experience but above all requires dedication and a genuine passion for Culture and Arts. An expert in the field should stay informed about current trends, have a broad understanding of cross-cultural contexts, and follow agile – governance – principles.

Cultural professionals can pursue a degree in Cultural Studies/Management, History and Archaeology, Museum Studies, Art Management, or a Master's in a related discipline. One could work in a wide field in the cultural industry such as government cultural departments, cultural profit and nonprofit institutions, museums and galleries, art foundations, libraries, and branding Heritage networks. Nowadays, the integration of innovative policies in the field of cultural management is an enormous challenge. Cultural managers, curators, museum educators, or cultural policy analysts must adopt a holistic strategy with opportunities for new voices and the adoption of alternative policies in the field of cultural governance.

From my perspective, Arts and Culture must be seen as change agents that promote creativity, innovation, and intercultural dialogue, they have a transformative role as main actors in sustainable growth, democracy, and peace.

 ^{_{Photo Credit: Ian Schneider for Unsplash}}