Democracy as Creative Practice: Weaving a Culture of Civic Life (2025), edited by Tom Borrup and Andrew Zitcer, was named one of the five books all cultural leaders should read in 2025 by the World Cities Cultural Forum. The book offers arts-based solutions to threats to democracies around the world, practices that foster more just and equitable societies. With 34 authors from 7 different countries, the book demonstrates how creativity is integrated in place-based actions, aesthetic strategies, learning environments, and civic processes.

“In a time of deepening gloom about democracy, Tom Borrup and Andrew Zitcer’s edited collection, with examples of cultural organizing from around the world, is a source of hope and inspiration. The book is particularly valuable for its detailed look at cultural workers and citizen artists on the front lines of civic renewal and democracy building.” – Harry C. Boyte, Emeritus Senior Scholar, Augsburg University, author, Awakening Democracy through Public Work.