Cities, Creativities and Urban Creative Economies: Re‐descriptions and Make+Shifts from Sub‐Saharan Africa

Abstract

The aim of this symposium is to examine the situation of the creative economy in cities—specifically cities of sub‐Saharan Africa. In this introduction we set out the case for the need to ‘re‐describe’ the (much derided) phenomenon of the creative city. This task requires clarification of what is understood in academe and policy communities by the term ‘creative economy’, the pronounced growth of this sector, particularly in the global South, and its particular urban character. Secondly, in the face of conceptual and policy confusion we argue for the actually existing, and growing, importance of the urban creative economy. Thirdly, with this ground clearing achieved, we seek to frame, and focus on, the emergence of new research on the urban creative economy. Finally, we use the evidence from the symposium contributions to argue for a reformulation of the creative economy within African sub‐Saharan urbanization.

Reviewing the role of cultural and creative industries in developing an urban cultural policy platform in Rasht city, Iran

“…These are the key elements in creating an environment for the workforce that has the awareness and expertise to support the employment necessities (Pourzakarya and Fadaei Nezhad Bahramjerdi, 2021). In spite of cultural practices, this paper suggests that more efforts should be made to control the power of intangible and tangible heritage which are the drivers of creativity and urban regeneration (Mbaye and Pratt, 2020). The RMS is a cultural pedestrian plaza, supplied with history, identity and social life reflecting the common memories of the society.…”

“…CCIs, from performing arts and media to crafts and cultural heritage, are currently being used by many urban policymakers with the idea that an artistic and cultural environment could generate economic growth, city branding and attractiveness for the promotion of cultural diversity (Mbaye and Pratt, 2020). In spite of the connection with global titles and competitions, arts and culture have been highlighted more in urban policies because of the role of society, public/private organisations and urban places in shaping urban cultural frameworks (Markusen, 2014).…”

“…In 2016, the culture was accentuated, in its multiple expressions ranging from cultural heritage to CCIs and cultural tourism, as both an enabler and a driver of the various features of sustainable development, a fact broadly accepted through plentiful cases (UNESCO, 2016). By means of cultural heritage and creativity, culture contributes to human and socio-economic development, social inclusion, sustainable cities and environmental sustainability (Mbaye and Pratt, 2020).…”