England - Art and Culture

Francis Bacon (1561-1626) on engraving from 1845.
English philosopher, statesman, lawyer,
jurist, author and scientist. Engraved
by J.Cochran from a picture by Van
Somer and published by J.F.Tallis.

The art and culture of a country like England shape and determine, to a large extent, the very identity of that

place. To experience this aspect of England, one immerses themselves in its people, places, and the unique elements

that define it.

In general, art and culture is revealed in the following aspects:

• Architecture

• Language(s)

• Sports

• Cuisine

• Literature

• Music

• Philosophy

• Folklore

• Laws and legal system

• Religion

• Science

• Symbols

England is a land of creativity and innovation. Locals and visitors are assured of new and exciting elements that

are continuously being refreshed. This is especially true of epicentres such as London and Manchester. There are

even specific projects that are designed to engender such creativity amongst the local population. Examples of this

type of initiative are the Tate Liverpool and the Tate Modern in London. But museums and galleries are not the only

homes of art. Sculptures and art festivals also testify to the creative genius of England. Sculptures range from

ancient figures of historical import to life-size bronze carvings of human beings (such as exist on the roof of De

la Warr Pavilion in Bexhill or the Another Place exhibition on Crosby Beach, Liverpool).

One of the largest art festivals is held in Birmingham and is called Artsfest. The artistic talents being showcased range from classical music and song to traditional dancing and stand-up comedy. This festival is usually held in September.

Theatre is another very important part of the English culture and is, in fact, one of the reasons people visit the country. Theatrical shows, such as Cats, The Lion King and The Phantom of the Opera, are modern reflections of the ancient Shakespearean productions that once graced the English stages. Today, shows in London remain one of England’s primary tourist attractions.

England has been the birthplace of a number of incredible musical artists too. Music remains a very important part of this country’s culture. Styles range from the orchestral genius of Manchester, Birmingham and Bournemouth to timeless favourites like Blur, Oasis, David Bowie, The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, The Beatles, Coldplay and Lily Allen. The Birmingham International Jazz Festival continues to lure music enthusiasts to come and witness the world’s greatest jazz artists.

Music festivals in England are very popular and include:

• Exeter's Vibraphonic

• Nantwich Jazz & Blues Music Festival

• Bath Music Festival

• Harewood House Proms Spectacular in Leeds

• Reading Festival

Food festivals showcase the sheer wonders and varieties of foods that coexist in England, thanks to the many cultures that make up its unique population. The Manchester Food and Drink Festival, CAMRA Beer Festival and Chocolate Week in London are just some of the culinary features that are sure to provide a tasty extravaganza for young and old alike.

Owing to its rich history, England’s architecture is another important element of its culture; one that tells the tales of battles, victories, defeats, love, death and religion. Churches, stately homes, abbeys and ruins remain as remnants of the fascinating past that shaped the future. These include several World Heritage Sites, as deemed by UNESCO. Some of these include:

• Durham Castle and Cathedral

• Stonehenge

• The Roman Baths

England is, indeed, a land of great artistic and cultural import, providing locals and visitors alike with a fabulous insight into the makings of a diverse destination.

For more information, please view: http://www.culture.gov.uk