Originally Posted by
McCaber
Specifically, I am interested in the negotiation around city space and the different definitions of "culture" that drive who has appropriated what space and with what justifications and consequences.
Culture means many things to many people. The working class of Liverpool wanted predominantly working class cultural events (which do not have universal appeal) and the middles class more universal appealing traditional cultural events.
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Some morons thought it was a way of making money and providing employment, not knowing what cultures was of any type.
I would say about 1/3 of the city took no part in any event at all and never bothered to see any.
What do you think about the promotion of the Capital of Culture locally and to prospective visitors? How was Liverpool "sold"?
It was sold about right. Maritime, architecture, music, cosmopolitan influences, etc.
What do you think is distinct about the "culture" of Liverpool?
The maritime cosmopolitan mix of the people, which blends into a unqiue blend.
What do you think about the regeneration and building projects in the city?
They were already under way, despite. Most were late and the city was still a constructions site, which it still is.
Were there controversies? Did you feel like the process was democratic? driven by an elite?
The process had to be driven by an elite. Liverpool became a predominately working class city in culture as the economy collapsed. The middle classes fled. This is changing as people come back.
What did you think about the events and spectacle throughout the year?
Very good and many were well thought out and reflected the city's maritime heritage.
Who did you think most benefited? Perhaps the most ideal scenario for me would be to talk about this over a pint when I'm in town. I have never been to Liverpool and look forward to being in the city and talking to locals. Is anyone game?
The city as whole benefitted in image. Outside of the city most of the UK thought the city was wasteland of a slum, not ever being there, as the London media portrayed that image. See this:
home of the skyscraper
However, this image was not reflected outside of the UK. The city generally does not care too much what the rest of the UK think, and like to look over the seas - as it traditionally did.
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