September, 2004 - Nr. 9
Germany best country for artists
TWIG - Germany is the best country to reside in for artists, according to a survey reported in the U.S. news magazine Newsweek.
A global list of "bests" created for the American magazine by the New York-based Columbia University’s Earth Institute listed the vibrant cultural scene in Berlin, Germany’s capital, as the main draw for happy artists pursuing their muse.
In Berlin and beyond, officials know the importance of supporting the arts, the magazine said.
For example, the German government supported more than 300 classical music festivals last year alone. But a generous program of cultural subsidies isn’t the only factor fueling Germany’s artist enclaves.
The blossoming of culture has more to do with the lifestyle opportunities afforded by the country’s capital. In Berlin, a severe housing surplus is just one economic factor that has allowed artists from around the world to create their art without fear of starving artists destitution.
The report came as no surprise to marketing professionals who have long touted Berlin as a bustling creative melting pot far on its way to becoming the center of European artistic activity.
Other "bests" listed in the report included the United
States as the "best place to make money," Sweden as the "best place to
research biotechnologies without interference," and Turkey as the "best
place to be young."
Republished with permission from "The Week in Germany"
