The city of Lyon, France was appointed as the first UNESCO City of Media arts in June 2008.
Historically, Lyon is an industrial city. As traditional industries relocated or closed, the city progressively refocused its activity on new technologies, such as the pharmaceutical or biotechnology sectors, like the nearby Grenoble. Lyon is also the second biggest student city in France, with three universities and many engineering schools. The city boasts an important architectural heritage dating back to Roman times, the Renaissance and ever present today. For this reason Lyon is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Media arts have been part of the city’s life for nearly a decade: economic stakeholders, local authorities or public utilities, artists and designers all contribute to the development of these tools and methods on a daily basis. Many public events that celebrate media arts in the city are becoming more and more famous. However, the movement needs to grow through various partnerships and by demonstrating the creativity present in the city.
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