Reading the Hodge Review through a place-based lens
The Hodge Review of Arts Council England has sparked a lot of discussion across the sector.
In this new piece for Arts Professional I read the review through a place-based lens, asking what it might mean if we take seriously the idea that culture happens somewhere, with people, histories and communities already in motion.
Much of the review focuses on systems, structures and national frameworks. Important conversations. But the real test of any cultural policy is how it lands in place: in towns, cities, villages and neighbourhoods where artists work and where people live their everyday cultural lives.
Looking at the review this way raises a few questions.
How might cultural policy better recognise the role of local ecosystems?
How can funding frameworks support the relational work that happens between artists, organisations and communities?
And what would it mean to think about cultural infrastructure as something grown and sustained locally, not only administered nationally?
The place lens does not replace national policy thinking. It complements it. It reminds us that culture is always lived, made and negotiated in specific contexts.
If you are working in arts, culture, heritage or local government, I would be interested in how the review reads from where you are.