Culture Venture at the 10th World Summit on Arts and Culture in Seoul
This week, Culture Venture proudly participated in the 10th World Summit on Arts and Culture, held in Seoul, South Korea , a landmark global gathering hosted by the International Federation of Arts Councils and Culture Agencies (IFACCA) and Arts Council Korea.
Toni Attard, Culture Venture’s Founder and Director, played a central role, moderating the World Café, a dynamic and participatory session that brought together some of the most innovative thinkers and cultural leaders from around the world. This engaging format encouraged rich dialogue around the future of arts and culture, challenging delegates to collectively envision the path to 2050.
Reflecting on the experience, Toni shared:
“It was a space to pause and reflect. To listen deeply. And to be reminded that the wealth of knowledge and lived experience from other parts of the world is not just valuable, it’s essential.”
Among the most pressing topics discussed was the role of artificial intelligence in culture, a theme that sparked both concern and cautious optimism.
“Our research in this area is timely and the Summit insights were invaluable to the work we will be developed in the coming months. AI isn’t inherently evil but the regulatory frameworks that shape its use will define its impact – culture must be at the table.”
Amidst conversations on technology, funding, and policy, one message echoed clearly across the Summit: cultural rights are non-negotiable. In an age of increasing polarisation and populism, defending these rights remains a vital responsibility for cultural workers and institutions alike.
“Arts councils and cultural agencies have a critical role as custodians of the values that define who we are – yet they face real threats: shrinking budgets, political interference, burnout. These pressures can’t be ignored.”
The Summit also explored leadership in the cultural sector. A powerful message came from IFACCA Chair Kristin Danielsen, who invoked an indigenous perspective: we inherit our roles, and we borrow them from our successors. In a world too often driven by short-term gains and political bravado, this reminder calls for a new leadership grounded in care, empathy, and responsibility.
Culture Venture extends its heartfelt thanks to Magdalena Moreno Mujica, the IFACCA team, the Summit advisory group, and Arts Council Korea for curating such a necessary and thought-provoking global conversation.
“It was an honour and privilege to be part of this gathering,” said Toni. “With responsibility, the fight continues.”
Stay tuned as we bring these insights into our work, championing creativity, defending cultural rights, and preparing for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
