BOP is currently working on an economic impact assessment for St Magnus International Festival in Orkney. The festival is just one part of the rich cultural life of the islands, which is even more striking given that Orkney is home to just 20,000 people.
Last year Highlands and Islands Enterprise commissioned the arts consultant, François Matarasso, to examine the islands' culture in more depth. The resulting report, called Stories and Fables, is rather unusual in style, combining a straightforward description of the levels and type of cultural activity with more discursive reflections on Orkney life. Matarasso worries that the culture of Orkney is under threat from the tough economic climate and the departure from the scene (through retirement or death) of many of the key figures who have driven developments over the last 30 years. Nevertheless, he believes a talented new generation is coming through.
Matarasso goes on to identify ten principles underpinning Orkney's success which have wider application. They include:
- Leadership with a clear vision
- Demonstrating value
- A sustainable economic model
- Valuing volunteers
- Open, democratic governance
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