Public programmes

The Institute's Autumn public programme is Art, Imagination and Public Service.

Our beliefs, perceptions and feelings determine the way we see the world and how we respond to it. They sit underneath our decisions and actions, influencing them even as we seek to apply reason and rationality to all we do. They are subtle policy drivers. Art and imagination speak to our inner selves more powerfully than evidence and analysis, so would a dialogue with the arts help policy makers? Would it usefully soften an overly utilitarian approach to public service, or would it only undermine tried and tested ways of working, replacing them with nothing constructive?

Art, Imagination and Public Service will explore these questions by bringing public servants into conversation with visual artists, poets and musicians.