Structure of Culture in Greece Notes
Structure of Culture in Greece
Introduction
Greece is recognized as a significant force in the field of culture, contributing to both self-awareness and international representation.
The chapter aims to inform readers about the structures and regulatory frameworks of culture in Greece.
Objectives
By the end of the chapter, readers should be able to:
Describe the structures of culture in Greece.
Distinguish cultural policies defined by the Ministry of Culture, local government, and the private sector.
Describe key characteristics of policies in primary cultural sectors such as fine arts and literature.
Identify criteria that guided the formulation of specific policies.
Critically assess the fundamental provisions of each policy.
Key Concepts
Cultural Policy
Cultural Heritage
Contemporary Greek Culture
Fine Arts (music, theater, dance, cinema, visual arts)
Regulations
Law 2557/1997 "Institutions, Measures, and Actions for Cultural Development"
Organization
Ministry of Culture (ΥΠ.ΠΟ.)
Central Services
General Directorates
Initial Observations
After studying the introductory volume, students may wonder about the meaning of 'cultural policy' and its development in Greece.
The chapter addresses questions about which agencies influence cultural policies, the clarity of those policies, and their historical context.
Cultural Policy Defined
Section 1.1
Cultural policy is a system of objectives, means, and agencies that combines into a program to achieve knowledge, promotion, and dissemination of cultural phenomena.
Objectives include:
Protection of cultural heritage and identity.
Enhancement of artistic and intellectual creation.
Participation in the enjoyment and creation of cultural goods.
Study Activity 1
Discuss the statement on national policy in cultural sectors, focusing on holistic instead of fragmented approaches in development.
Cultural Institutions
Section 1.2
Key categories of cultural agents in Greece:
Ministry of Culture (ΥΠ.ΠΟ.): The primary state authority responsible for cultural policy.
Local Government: Major partner in cultural development, hosting arts centers, libraries, and orchestras.
Other Ministries: E.g., Ministry of Education, Local and Regional Authorities, Church, Private Sector Institutions.
Ministry of Culture and its Role
Section 1.2.1
Key Responsibilities:
Strengthening contemporary Greek culture.
Preservation and promotion of cultural heritage.
State approaches differentially for cultural heritage compared to contemporary culture; legislation is ongoing (notably, Law 2557/1997).
Policy Development Trends
Late '90s initiatives include the establishment of the National Cultural Network of Cities to foster regional cultural institutions for broader European integration.
Emphasis on "diacronia" (timelessness) and "synergy" in cultural policy.
Organizational Structure of the Ministry of Culture
Section 1.3
Historical Background: Founded in 1971 to formalize the state's role in cultural affairs.
Current Structure [based on the 1977 decree]: Includes various general directorates overseeing areas like archaeology, museums, and artistic practices.
Key Laws and Milestones
Notable laws impacting the Ministry of Culture, including the restructuring plans, highlight the evolution from educational and cultural sectors separately managed to a unified cultural policy structure.
Core Functions of the Ministry Scope
The Ministry employs a broad scope with governance over museums, archaeological sites, and artistic venues, linking to the national identity.
Conclusion
Understanding the complexities of Greek cultural policy encompasses various frameworks such as legal codes, directorial divisions, and interactions with socio-political factors. The processes involved demonstrate an interplay between tradition and innovation, continually shaping Greece's cultural landscape.
References
Official texts and various scholarly works informing this overview provide foundational knowledge on the subject of cultural policy in Greece.