Creative Careers and Territorial Development: The Role of Networks and Relational Proximity in Fashion Design. (3rd October 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tremblay, Diane-Gabrielle
• Other Names: Shen Jianfa Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Urban studies research. Volume 2012(2012)
• Publication Date: 2012-10-03
• Subjects: Urban policy -- Research -- Periodicals; Urban policy -- Research; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 307.76
• DOI: 10.1155/2012/932571
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-4185

Abstract

Abstract : Geater Montreal is the third largest city in North America for the garment industry in terms of labour force, after Los Angeles and New York. The industry has however changed partly into a service industry, centered on fashion design, with a focus on international competitiveness but also the role of fashion in Montreal's economic and territorial development. Our article analyzes careers in the fashion design sector, sheds light on the evolution of creative sectors, and shows how these sectors could be better supported to favor local development, as neighborhoods and space design appear important in these creative sectors. We situate our analysis in the theoretical context of career theories, and analyze key moments in careers and the role of intermediate organizations and government programs in supporting these careers. Our paper makes a contribution to our knowledge of career paths in the fashion industry, but also to the role of relational proximity in supporting these careers, and thus local development. It highlights the importance of personal connections, the milieu in which the individual works and functions, the creativity of the individual, as well as the role of the local support organizations and professional associations, including agencies of the provincial government.