Producing Culture by Creative Means: A View from the Periphery

Abstract

The creative and cultural economy have distinct dimensions in a peripheral and rural context. These include product and place, uniqueness and authenticity of rural, remoteness, non-economic motivation and the allure of the rural. Furthermore, taking a firm perspective, creative firms in peripheral regions are dominated by micro enterprises, typically one-person operations and with a large concentration found in the creative expression sector. Such firms operate from home environments or from shared spaces with creative expressive and technology sectors using this type of space to base their operations. There is a high degree of time spent in the pursuit of non-commercial ends. Moreover, these firms have a high level of internationalisation and are export orientated, with a high degrees of intentionality to export among firms that are not currently exporting. For these firms to survive and thrive there is a need to tailored mentoring and support that enhances viability and sustainability.