Main motivation behind the city bidding to become Capital of Culture: The Capital of Culture was part of a national and local political project to revitalise the Danish capital and the surrounding region. The Capital of Culture was to help lead this process by putting culture at the top of the agenda.

Official mission or broad aim:

A three-hundred page White Paper, published after extensive consultation in 1992-3, contained a list of ten official aims:

Wide participation in art and culture in the region

Create lasting improvements in art and culture in the region

Emphasise the variety and quality of art and culture in the region

Place Danish art and culture on the international map

Focus on international trends in contemporary art

Bring forward unique nature of the city’s physical and historical situation

Strengthen Copenhagen as a unified geographical area and as a capital city

Enhance Copenhagen’s role as a European centre

Strengthen creativity and quality of life in the region Involve particular groups of the community

Objectives rated as having a high importance:

Highest importance:

Long-term cultural development

Enhancing pride and self-confidence Raising the international profile Followed by:

Cultural infrastructure improvements

Growing and expanding the local audience for culture

Running a programme of cultural activities

Attracting visitors from own country

Attracting visitors from abroad

Developing the talent/career of local artists

And then:

Economic development

Social cohesion/community development

Encouraging artistic and philosophic debate

Creating a festive atmosphere

Promoting innovation and creativity

Developing relationships with other European cities

Consultation to define aims and objectives:

Yes, this was a particular feature of Copenhagen 96.

Consultation took place with:

Politicians - cultural organisations, artists - business community - tourism sector - community organisations, social services - local residents.

How was consultation undertaken:

30 one-day seminars between September 92 and February 93 leading to the White Paper, followed by outreach to many local associations, schools etc.

There was also an advisory board of about 100 people, starting in 1994.

Source: European Cities and Capitals of Culture - City Reports Study Prepared for the European Commission PART II, written by Palmer/Rae Associates, International Cultural Advisors