What is the relationship between the state, arts and society? What is the role of cultural policy, particularly for the arts and cultural industries in Singapore? How does cultural policy translate into, and impact practice? Are there differences between forms of cultural policy in terms of how they function, and what they are intended to do?
This course provides students with a critical understanding of the significance and impact of cultural policy on arts management, practice and consumption. Through the exploration of a range of contemporary cultural policy issues and themes, students will critically consider the origins, functions and limitations of cultural policy, particularly in the Singapore context. Students will also interact with cultural policy-makers, arts managers and related stakeholders to obtain a working grasp of the mechanics and practicalities of cultural policies, and how policy impacts artists and arts practice.
Ultimately, this course aims to provide students with the ability and self-confidence to evaluate cultural policy in varying contexts, and to analyse and critique new policy initiatives for the arts and cultural industries as they arise.