From the exhibitions we visit, to the videos we watch and make, to the clothes we wear; the choices we take about what culture to consume and what we create help us connect with others who share our opinions, ideas and beliefs. Through culture we find our place in the world; we explore who we are and who we want to be.  This is our expressive life.

A collection of essays published by Demos in 2009 examines the idea of ‘expressive life’.  It helps us to see creativity and heritage as the fabric of our society that gives meaning and value to our lives.  Contributors from across the creative and cultural sectors look at the effects of changes in our behaviour towards cultural institutions, developments in technology and the global exchange of different attitudes and beliefs.  These combine with political uncertainty and economic upheaval to put culture and creativity at the heart of debate about the future of our communities and international relations.

Authors range from the directors of major institutions such as the Royal Opera House and National Portrait Gallery, to voices representing online creative production and technology-based music.  They respond to the idea of ‘expressive life’ examining what it means in their particular sphere of activity and how it relates to their experience. 

‘Expressive Lives’ is an attempt to change the terms of policy debate.  The intensity of cultural forms encountered every day open us up to new values and experiences.  Therefore cultural policy should enable citizens to take an active role in shaping their world – providing opportunities to represent and reflect, rather than provisions to ration out. To have recognition at government level of the importance of creativity and culture in our everyday lives is vitally important, no matter which party has a General Election success.

Expressive Lives is available for download here.

Extracts taken from ‘Expressive Lives’ article

By Samuel Jones

 Arts Professional, Nov. 2009