OAFP 9710 - Financing Culture: Case Studies and Insights from Cultural Players

The course has the following objectives:

Understand the financial models of cultural institutions, current trends in the sector, and the different organizational structures through which culture is managed and funded (public, private, and hybrid models).

Gain a comprehensive understanding of the cultural ecosystem, including public, private, and non-governmental actors involved in the sector, as well as their respective economic and funding models.

Learn how to develop and present budgets for different types of cultural projects and organizations

Develop a critical understanding of private-sector involvement in culture, including the motivations, expectations, and implications of corporate sponsorship, philanthropy, and partnerships with public cultural institutions.

Understand the symbolic power of cultural institutions, particularly museums and heritage organizations, from a governmental perspective, and explore the role they play in cultural diplomacy and international influence.

Gain insight into project-based approaches to international cultural funding, including the design, financing, and implementation of cultural cooperation projects.

Develop the ability to adopt the perspectives of different cultural stakeholders, through case studies, presentations, and practical exercises.

Interest in economic development issues, particularly in the museum and heritage sectors.

The course will be organized as follows:

Student-led review of current developments in the cultural sector

Faculty presentations combining theoretical frameworks, case studies, and professional experience, with a strong emphasis on practical application

Student presentations and discussions

Guest lectures by cultural professionals presenting their institution and professional practice, with the aim of (i) illustrating the models examined in class, (ii) helping students envision a range of career opportunities and institutional settings, and (iii) expanding their professional networks.

One group press review (one press review per group of two or three students, to be presented during a class session).

One group presentation (15 minutes) (to be delivered by groups of two or three students to be presented during a class session).

Individual class participation