We live in a country where the uniqueness and wealth of ancient heritage is such that, in connection with the wider political use of antiquity, it often overshadows the recent past, which is equally of importance and interesting. This asymmetry is often reflected in the museum sector, with the result that excellent efforts do not meet with the promotion and support they merit. The Network of Museums of Contemporary Culture, through the actions and yearly meetings it organises, contributes to the creation of a network that restores balance, as much as possible.
Equally asymmetrical is the manner in which we treat the financial dimension of culture in relation to its aspect as a public good. We usually focus on the latter, disregarding the importance of the former. Yet, culture is an integral element of the financial sector, which potentially can offer a positive balance, since it can substantially contribute to economic growth, as experience and studies over many years have shown. The subject might still be taboo for many; however, unless we address it, we are at risk of allowing culture to be turned into a luxury for the elite, thus losing its public character and its vitality.
In this context, the meetings of the Network of Museums of Contemporary Culture constitute an important initiative. With enviable perseverance in the face of periodic adversity, they have managed on an annual basis, virtually without exception, to bring together agencies of contemporary culture that may conceivably be quite different – from art galleries to museums of ore mining, from museums of popular art to museums of technology. They are also on the same page as regards their passion and commitment to not leave the field of contemporary culture to obscurity, by contributing variously to development and innovation. The creative contribution of museums is critical in this respect. Just as critical, in fact, as dialogue and innovative synergies based on our shared concern for culture and development.
