For far too long, Gozo was marketed, both directly and subliminally, as the island where time stood still. The typical media focus would be on the odd eccentric character watching the world go by sitting on a bench at It-Tokk, or some female farmer showing off a home-made cheeselet. Gozo became a synonym for backwardness. This had a negative effect on Gozo's social and economic progress.

Starting from the very first day of my watch, the Ministry for Gozo has embarked on an on-going campaign to enhance Gozo's cultural image and identity.  Its mission statement has been to refresh and challenge the popular perception of Gozo. It has now become the in-thing to state that Gozo is not a crib - Għawdex mhux presepju.

Young people are starting to relate to the little island. This is happening because the Ministry for Gozo is promoting a contemporary lifestyle. We are doing this by exploiting the island's natural physical resources and beauty. Scuba-diving, climbing and windsurfing are cases in point. Secondly, by introducing innovative artistic material in its heritage and traditions - its folk, gastronomy, museums, and architectural icons such as the Citadel and Ġgantija - so as to retain their relevance by connecting and relating them to today's global village. For instance, putting up an avant-garde performance in the Citadel would bring its ancient stones to life. Adequate, modern and professional infrastructures, including a contemporary art museum, and an important interpretation centre at the revamped Citadel, together with a fresh approach to the presentation of our cultural heritage, has become a strategic priority. And thirdly, by branding Gozo as a distinct venue for innovative art.

The Gozo Ministry intends to be more open and approachable to artists to facilitate their access to funds, permits, and to promote artistic collaborations.

We are currently identifying spots on the island which are appropriate for different artistic purposes.

Diminutive in area, Gozo is extremely rich in artistic potential. We intend to attract foreign artists to help internationalise Gozo's indigenous creative talent. Gozo's insularity is fast becoming history. Foreign artists will be encouraged to set up workshops and perform or exhibit works of a genre new to Gozo; to create talent scouting for young artists; to establish workshops, and organise competitions for up-and-coming artists with scholarships for the winners. The technical feasibility of streaming concerts and other artistic material from overseas should be explored.

We envisage the eventual setting up of an artistic gymnasium - to provide an art space; to flex the muscles of innovation and to identify innovative forms of art, different from those commonly perceived today such as painting, sculpture, dancing and singing. Today, technology is increasingly being incorporated, broadening the artistic spectrum.

Encouraging innovation is no extravagance. A Gozo capable of supporting and developing an environment where the creative talent of its population is developed and prospers is a Gozo capable of supporting its inhabitants' economic and social development. Studies show that creative areas of the economy such as films, design and performing arts create a lot of high value-added work, support other sectors in the economy like tourism and manufacturing and at the same time create a vibrant environment in those contexts where these sectors develop. There is much more value-added in it than merely sexing up the Gozo cheeselet.

Dr Anton Refalo is Minister for Gozo