Creativity and critical thinking are essential for innovation in today’s digital world. Within the framework of Mons 2015 European Capital of Culture, the symposium will explore cultural and creative cross-overs to stimulate innovation, economic sustainability and social inclusion.

It has long been an established fact that innovation is at the core of a competitive economy but the skills needed to achieve it have evolved: in addition to scientific and technological skills, skills such as creativity has become essential. In this context, the Arts are gaining prominence as a catalyst for an efficient conversion of Science and Technology knowledge into novel products, services, and processes.

The symposium will address the constant appropriation of new technologies by citizens and artists in two sessions:

1. Innovation in Citizen Practices: Content is the key
2. Crossovers from Culture and the Arts to innovation in Society and Industry: Creativity is the key.

The European Commission recognizes the emergence of vital arts and research communities who work jointly on the unique usage of technology. It supports the new online platform StARTS - innovation at the nexus of Science, Technology, and the Arts - where artists and researchers can creatively innovate with ICT.

The symposium is held as part of Mons 2015 European Capital of Culture. To get your personal invitation to the symposium, please complete the registration form here no later than 22 may 2015.