European Capitals of Culture are one of the most recognised EU projects.

They began in 1985 on the initiative of the then Greek Minister of Culture, Melina Mercouri. The idea is to put specific regions at the heart of cultural life across Europe. Through culture and art, European Capitals of Culture improve the quality of life in these regions and strengthen their sense of community.

 

“Citizens can take part in the year-long activities and play a larger role in their region’s development and cultural expression.

Being a European Capital of Culture brings fresh life to these regions, boosting their cultural, social and economic development.”

 

Source: European Commission

VISION

The artistic vision for our cultural programme was that it would be authentically of Galway, while being presented through a European lens and supported by partners and collaborators in Europe and beyond.

The concept for Galway 2020 was Making Waves. It was about creating new ways of thinking, new ways of working, new conversations and new partnerships aimed at ensuring a more creative Galway.

EUROPEAN DIMENSION

We wantrf to focus on issues that are not exclusively Galway’s, but are part of the broader discussion on European concerns.

The Galway 2020 themes Migration, Landscape and Language resonated with this very strongly.