I was reading with interest the post of Gillian Hewitt Smith on the Toronto Star "Your City, My City" blog. I couldn't agree more. In fact, in the era of bean counters in positions of power, we have lost track of key ideas: what is a culture? what is a city?
Quiz: name one accountant or one lawyer from 60 years ago. Now, name one artist or musician from that time.
Throughout history, great cities have risen and presided over a crossroads and meeting place of commerce and culture. In ancient Byzantium, caravans would arrive from every direction, bringing with them their unique spices, fabrics, rugs, pottery, etc. Around campfires, dancers, musicians, storytellers and philosophers would exchange their culture's highest artistic expression. The resultant mix of visions would influence the development of the home cultures, and as consciousness expanded, a renaissance of arts, culture, architecture and wisdom was sure to follow.
Such a time is now, such a place is Toronto, where the world brings their cultures to mix and fuse their genius. The planet comes here to share their history, wisdom and art. Let us together midwife this new Byzantium.
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