Chance, Change, and the Sticusa. On the nature of Cultural Cooperation between the Sticusa and Suriname

Abstract

In this thesis the notion of the Foundation for Cultural Cooperation with Suriname and the Netherlands Antilles (Sticusa) as an institution guilty of cultural imperialism is challenged. Instead of focusing on continuity after colonialism the focus in this thesis lies on change. The Sticusa operated in a multi-cultural country in which culture carried the weight of nation-building; therefore it was heavily contested. Through its activities Sticusa created niches that were filled by the creative practices of Surinamese writers, artist, and others involved in the cultural world of Suriname. In their cultural endeavours, they brought about cultural change and provided in the effort to create a national culture.