Resumen de Exploring the role of networks in the creative economy of North East England: economic and cultural dynamics
This chapter is a critical reflection on the role of networks and networking in the context of the creative economy. There is a large literature emerging on the role of networks in general in various economic contexts. Some older theoretical frameworks, such as clusters and industrial district analysis, place considerable importance on networks and the interactions within them. However, the dynamics and interactions that emerge in the context of the creative economy provide an interesting setting to test and explore how individuals use networks in their creative and cultural practices. This often involves managing not only a business but the enhancement of their knowledge base and artistic skills. Research for this chapter was conducted in 2005–2007 in the region of the North-East of England (UK), specifically in Newcastle-Gateshead, an old industrial city-region trying to establish itself as center of the knowledge and creative economy. The chapter maps the dynamics of individuals working in the creative economy in this context and captures their interactions and engagement as key elements in the local creative development of the city.
