Denmark wants to spark young people’s interest in artistic disciplines

The Ministry of Culture has set aside over EUR 5 million to finance projects targeting those between the ages 0 and 24

In recent years, the interest in arts and culture has significantly and steadily reduced as more and more young people decide to pursue education in STEM subjects. Understanding the value of artistic activities, Denmark has taken action to spark people’s interest in such disciplines. More specifically, the Ministry of Culture has set aside DKK 40 million (EUR 5,379,274) for the implementation of a new initiative: Grib Engagementet (Grab the Commitment).

14 cultural experiments to promote artistic disciplines

Grib Engagementet consists of two application rounds whereby municipalities can submit projects and receive financing to test out ways in which they can persuade the youth to take part in cultural activities. The deadline for the first round was on 25 May and 14 projects have now received financial support for their implementation. These experiments target young people between the ages of 0-24 and aim to research what will encourage them to develop skills in areas such as music, film, theatre, visual arts, dance, design, etc.

Commenting on this initiative, Minister of Culture Joy Mogensen explained: “Culture created for, with, and by children and young people has a special value. Dealing with art and culture gives children and young people the opportunity to develop as human beings, which gives rise to reflection and contemplation, and when children, for example, sing or play instruments, they try out new forms of expression and become part of new communities that help them develop into committed and active citizens. I look forward to following the model trials and the experiences they will bring.”

Which municipalities are taking part in this initiative?

The 14 test trials have been designed by a total of 24 municipalities (with some collaborating on the same projects): Roskilde, Esbjerg, Odense, Fredensborg, Hjørring, Viborg, Skive, Holbæk, Odsherred, Vejle, Ballerup, Egedal, Faaborg-Midtfyn, Aarhus, Nordfyn, Varde, Silkeborg, Hedensted, Odder, Skanderborg, Lejre, Ringsted, Kalundborg, and Gentofte.

It must be noted that the Grib Engagementet was launched following findings that revealed that the number of students pursuing artistic disciplines has decreased by over 8,000 in just 4 years. It is hoped that the municipalities’ efforts will result in a higher number of students and a deeper interest in arts and culture.

Applications for the second round can be submitted from 19 August until 10 November. Projects will then be selected and funding will be distributed in mid-January 2022.