The arts can no longer be regarded as decorative indulgences. More than ever they define who we are and how we are seen. The skill, dedication and commitment required to produce enduring works of art needs to be celebrated and rewarded. The creativity which inspires those who produce and enjoy these works needs to be nurtured and encouraged. Essentially Creative presents a bold new agenda. It argues that the arts, creativity, innovation and cultural policy deserve a place at the center of the national agenda and suggests ways this might be realized. Distinguished arts policy adviser Helen O'Neil argues in the lead essay that it is time to develop a new approach which goes beyond cultural nationalism. She draws on history and new research about the importance of the arts in national identity, economics and education, to suggest the way Australia could be transformed by truly valuing the arts and creativity. Frank Moorhouse presents a manifesto for the imagination in an age of internet-induced anxiety, Nicholas Jose argues for renewed cultural diplomacy and Robyn Archer proposes a new way of thinking about risk. Other essays, memoirs and reports by some of the best artists and writers in the country bring this transformation to life. Other writers include: Brent Balinski, Julian Meyrick, Jenny Sinclair, Kim Mahood, Cameron Raynes, Kylie Ladd, James Bradley, Brian Castro, Rosie Scott, Ryan Heath, Nicolas Low, Elizabeth Ann Macgregor, Michael Vatikiotis, Joanna Mendelssohn, Julie Ballantyne, Don Lebler, Kim Williams, Huib Schippers, Stephen Downes, Mark Mordue and Helen Barnes-Bully. Poem by Philip Neilsen.