Open Culture Voices — Special Episode Part 1
Channel: Creative Commons
Date: 2023-07-13

In this Special Episode of the Open Culture Voices series, CC hosts a conversation among five open culture experts from around the world.

Dr. Andrea Wallace, Associate Professor at the University of Exeter Law School
Dr. Nkem Osuigwe, Director at the African Library and Information Associations and Institutions,
Medhavi Gandhi, Founder at The Heritage Lab
Evelin Heidel (Scann), Program Lead at Wikimedistas de Uruguay
Michael Peter Edson, Founder and Director at the Museum of Solutions

Topics addressed range from  the fundamental issues surrounding open culture, its transformative impact, and the challenges it faces in a world undergoing profound changes.

The conversation takes place at a pivotal moment in the open culture movement: while 2022 saw  the adoption of the MONDIACULT Declaration by UNESCO member states, which recognizes culture as a global public good, only 1% of the world’s cultural heritage institutions have open access policies. The experts reflect on whether open culture can fulfil its commitment to inclusive and global access to culture and participation in cultural life.

Some of the  key points discussed in this episode include:

The disruptive impact of new technologies, such as generative AI, on the open culture ecosystem, raising concerns about sustainability, accessibility, and equity.
The need to sketch a blueprint for open culture and better sharing to guide the direction of open culture in the coming years.
The observation that the open movement has stalled and is at a crossroads, requiring a realistic assessment of accomplishments, challenges, and future directions.
The importance of reflecting on and rethinking the mission, structure, and practices of cultural institutions in the digital age.
The need for a more equitable approach in open culture, addressing the bias in data representation and the lack of voices from underrepresented regions.
The sector’s need for active support and collaboration to address complex issues such as decolonization and inclusivity.
The importance of open culture in creating awareness, understanding, and appreciation of diverse cultures and knowledges.
Challenges include the need for more participatory practices, addressing issues of interoperability, and overcoming barriers to access in developing countries.
The role of open culture in contributing to addressing the climate crisis and preserving cultural heritage in emergency situations.
The environmental impact of digital technologies and the labor invisibilization associated with digital extraction.
The importance of considering local and intentional digital activities in open practices.

Overall, the first part of the conversation highlights the need to expand the reach and impact of open culture, address inequalities, and actively shape the future of openness in the cultural heritage sector. As the open culture movement evolves, it must address issues of representation, equity, and resource distribution and by embracing diverse perspectives and forging partnerships, the blueprint for open culture can be shaped to create a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

Part 2 will be release at the end of July 2023. Stay tuned!