France/ 8.4 Amateur arts, cultural associations and civil initiatives  

8.4.1 Amateur arts and folk culture

A survey in 1996 showed that half of those aged 15 years and older in France had practiced amateur arts in their lifetime and that 23 % continued to participate. For those aged between15 and 24 years, these proportions went up to two thirds and 50% respectively. Additionally, the younger amateur artists are more likely to practice two or more artistic activities.

It is interesting to note that artforms considered as less significant were in fact very popular, such as writing (poems, plays, novels, news) and dance. In addition, support for some artforms depends on the cycles of life, such as the choral societies - strong during youth, stagnant during the middle years and strengthening again at retirement age.

However, public supply does not meet the demand for the increasing number of people who wish to participate in numerous artforms, which is a phenomenon of this generation. An effort was agreed by the authorities to support the organisation of more activities and to provide spaces for meeting, practising and performing.

Your Comments on this Chapter?