In every society arts and culture matter; they are important factors in expressing demands for change and in articulating the stresses of uncertainty that change brings. Artists, who appeal both to the intellect and the emotions to get their message across, are key drivers of social change. The regeneration of society and communities through the arts is a powerful tool in delivering on the promises of a better future. Furthermore, a vibrant culture sector has a positive influence on tourism, employment and creative enterprise, driving economic growth. The "shared space" in which such processes highlighted above take place can be located outside of physical spaces, situated in the media or in a virtual environment. Building a powerful vision of the future, which incorporates social and cultural norms, enables creative communities to flourish, which in turn provide space for expression, development and social cohesion.