Creative Cities of Media Arts: The Power of Digital Creativity
In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through 22 cities across five continents, each one a beacon of innovation and artistic expression in the digital realm. From Cali in Colombia to Campina Grande in Brazil, Austin in the USA, Dakar in Senegal, Braga in Portugal, and York in the United Kingdom, these cities are redefining the boundaries of creativity.
You’ll discover how these urban centers are harnessing the power of media arts to revitalize their landscapes, preserve cultural heritage, and foster social inclusion. Imagine walking through the streets of Enghien-les-Bains in France, where ambitious video-mapping projects transform the cityscape into an open-air canvas, or exploring the cutting-edge digital exhibits at the Ars Electronica Center in Linz, Austria.
In Caen, France, you’ll learn how media arts are being integrated into educational contexts, empowering the next generation to become enlightened citizens capable of understanding and promoting UNESCO’s values. Changsha, China, on the other hand, is leveraging virtual reality technology to recreate the city’s rich cultural heritage, allowing you to step back in time and experience history like never before.
But it’s not just about technology; these cities are also nurturing vibrant communities of artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators. In Toronto, Canada, you’ll discover how the city is fostering creative clusters and supporting media arts hubs, while Karlsruhe, Germany, is home to a thriving software and games sector, putting it at the forefront of digital innovation.
As you delve into the stories of these remarkable cities, you’ll gain insights into their visions and strategies for promoting media arts. From developing international residency programs and fostering cross-cultural collaborations to establishing state-of-the-art facilities and hosting renowned festivals, these urban centers are paving the way for a future where creativity knows no bounds.
So, brace yourself for an immersive journey through the Creative Cities of Media Arts, where the lines between art, technology, and urban living blur, and where digital creativity reigns supreme. Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and transformed by the limitless possibilities that these cities have to offer.
1. Braga, Portugal: Where Art and Technology Converge
In the heart of northern Portugal lies the city of Braga, a thriving hub where art and technology seamlessly intertwine. With a rich history dating back to the late 20th century, Braga has witnessed a renaissance of artists and entrepreneurs who have transformed the local creative ecosystem by fusing art with cutting-edge innovation.
Today, Braga is home to numerous high-profile tech companies and a vibrant media arts scene that drives the local creative economy. From the multidisciplinary GNRation Centre, which promotes public awareness of digital technologies through interactive workshops, to the internationally acclaimed Semibreve Festival, showcasing avant-garde artists and experimental electronic music, Braga is a true celebration of the intersection between art and technology.
But that’s not all. The city has implemented a comprehensive strategy to support media arts and creative industries, nurturing an already thriving cultural ecosystem. With plans for a Media Arts Centre, international festivals, and collaborative opportunities with other Creative Cities, Braga is poised to become a global hub for media arts creators and professionals.
2. Hamar, Norway: Where Interactive Media Thrives
In the picturesque landscapes of inland Norway, the city of Hamar has emerged as a national powerhouse for interactive media and gamification. With a strategic focus on infrastructure development and a strong ICT sector, Hamar has become an incubator for startups in media arts, particularly in the realms of interactive media, gamification, and extended reality (XR).
One of the driving forces behind Hamar’s success is its dedication to sustainable development and cross-sector collaboration. The city hosts a range of international projects and events, such as the White Night and Art & Tech Days festivals, as well as the renowned KAIR artist-in-residency program. These platforms provide opportunities for young digital artists and established professionals to explore the boundaries of media arts and foster a vibrant creative community.
With a focus on education, lifelong learning, and research, Hamar is committed to nurturing the next generation of media arts pioneers. Initiatives like the quarto-helix cooperation HINN and the national cluster on immersive learning, VRInn, are paving the way for innovative approaches to interactive media and gamification.
3. Dakar, Senegal: Where Tradition Meets Innovation
In the vibrant coastal city of Dakar, media arts are not just a form of expression but a means of preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Senegal. As the country’s economic engine and a cosmopolitan melting pot, Dakar is a creative metropolis that hosts renowned cultural events like the World Festival of Black Arts and the Biennial of Contemporary African Art.
Recognizing the power of digital media to democratize artistic expression, Dakar is harnessing the potential of media arts to amplify the voices of its diverse communities. From the Théodore Monod Museum of African Art to the Arts Village and numerous galleries, the city’s cultural infrastructure reflects the vibrancy of its artistic scene.
As a Creative City of Media Arts, Dakar envisions supporting innovative local projects, fostering international collaborations, and strengthening culture as a driving force for human and urban development. By embracing the digital revolution, Dakar aims to facilitate the convergence of different artistic worlds and amplify the expressive forms of its people, ensuring that their stories are heard on a global stage.
4. Oulu, Finland: A Nexus of Art and Technology
Nestled in the Arctic region of Finland, the city of Oulu has emerged as a dynamic hub where art and technology converge. With a rich history dating back to its founding in 1605, Oulu has evolved into an innovation center, embracing modern technology and diverse competencies.
In the realm of media arts, Oulu collaborates with local partners, including independent art organizations, universities, and international networks, fostering a vibrant and interconnected creative community. The city’s resilience lies in its commitment to local and global renewal, with the Cultural Strategy of Oulu 2030 envisioning culture as a pivotal source of innovation, bridging the city’s hi-tech past with its present Art&Tech competence.
Events like the TechArt Forum, showcasing AI-generated art, haptics, digital twins, and avant-garde stage design, exemplify Oulu’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of media arts. The city actively collaborates with educational institutes, creative clusters, and local partners, fostering an inclusive and attractive environment that leverages culture and creativity for sustainable urban development.
As a Creative City of Media Arts, Oulu is dedicated to promoting media arts as a driver for sustainable urban development, encouraging cross-sector collaboration, and ensuring inclusivity for young people and emerging artists.
5. Linz, Austria: A Trailblazer in Media Arts
The city of Linz, Austria, has been a trailblazer and international hotbed of media arts and digital competence since the inception of the renowned Ars Electronica festival in 1979. This annual event, along with the Prix Ars Electronica, showcases and honors excellence in media culture, delivering essential impetus to the field worldwide.
Today, Linz is transforming a former industrial site into a center of the creative economy, with the Linz’s Tabakfabrik campus at its core. The city is also striving to become Europe’s first Open Commons region, fostering open access to networks and content.
With a strong focus on education and training in media arts and media culture, Linz offers numerous collaborative possibilities for instructors and students. The city fosters an active media culture scene with a wide array of production sites and creative hubs, while also sharing its expertise in archiving and scholarly work on media arts.
As a Creative City of Media Arts, Linz envisages exploring synergistic benefits for the Network through its global connections with Ars Electronica, sharing best-practice projects, and developing attractive strategic possibilities to expand the Ars Electronica Residency Network in partnership with the UCCN.
6. Caen, France: Embracing Inclusivity through Media Arts
In the historic city of Caen, France, media arts have become a driving force for promoting social inclusion and accessibility to culture for all. With over 1,000 firms employing around 5,000 people in the creative field of media arts, Caen has actively participated in local initiatives such as the Oblique/s and Station Mire support platforms, demonstrating the city’s commitment to fostering a vibrant creative ecosystem.
One of the highlights of Caen’s media arts scene is the Interstice Festival, which provides an opportunity for citizens and visitors to discover the works of local and international media artists. The festival involves each neighborhood in the organization, fostering social inclusion and ensuring accessibility to culture for everyone.
Caen has long been a supporter of pioneering digital artists, positioning itself as an incubator of digital talents. The city annually awards grants for visual and digital projects, valorizing and promoting the emergence of local media artists. Additionally, Caen aims to harness the potential of media arts to reduce social and gender inequalities and train future enlightened citizens capable of understanding, promoting, and defending UNESCO’s mandate and values.
As a Creative City of Media Arts, Caen is dedicated to identifying new avenues to protect and promote local heritage through media arts, fostering local social cohesion and a sense of belonging. The city also aims to leverage culture and creativity to foster innovation in urban planning, guarantee youth involvement in the dynamic local digital arts scene, and promote international cooperation and dialogue through media arts.
7. Campina Grande, Brazil: A Hub of Innovation and Creativity
In the vibrant city of Campina Grande, Brazil, creativity and innovation are deeply woven into the fabric of its culture. As a pioneer in the creation of a technological park and a media arts course, the only one of its kind in the country. Campina Grande has garnered significant recognition as a Brazilian university center, boasting 21 universities and colleges and a proportionally high number of PhDs per capita, six times the national average.
One of the city’s main attractions is the SESI Digital Museum of Campina Grande, a media arts space dedicated to the rich history of the city. This innovative museum showcases the city’s pioneering spirit and embrace of technology in preserving its cultural heritage.
Campina Grande is a city that truly believes in the power of creativity as a driving force for its development. In recent years, the city has demonstrated its capacity to organize large-scale events such as the São João de Campina Grande, which simultaneously promotes dancing, music, theatre, craftsmanship, gastronomy, and media arts, showcasing the city’s diverse cultural tapestry.
As a Creative City of Media Arts, Campina Grande envisions fostering South-South and North-South cooperation through the International Festival of Media Arts, providing a platform for artists and creators from around the world to share their works and exchange ideas. The city is also committed to sharing new operational methodologies, such as iconographic research, mapping of the creative economy, and cartography of cultural singularities, contributing to the global discourse on media arts and cultural preservation.
Moreover, Campina Grande aims to provide exchange opportunities for media arts researchers and students with other cities in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), fostering cross-cultural collaboration and knowledge sharing. The city also plans to actively participate in UCCN’s events, particularly those related to the Creative Cities of Media Arts, further strengthening its global presence and influence in the field.
With its strong academic foundation, innovative spirit, and commitment to preserving and promoting its rich cultural heritage through media arts, Campina Grande stands as a beacon of creativity and inspiration for artists, researchers, and entrepreneurs alike.
8. Austin, USA: Where Art, Music, and Digital Technology Converge
In the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, the creative sector is a vital component of the local economy, contributing over $4.35 billion in economic activity annually and representing nearly 49,000 permanent jobs. As the state capital with around 900,000 inhabitants, Austin has achieved prominence as a trendsetting global city at the intersection of art, music, and digital technology.
With its excellent higher education institutions, including the renowned University of Texas, Austin has cultivated a reputation as a progressive city, attracting a diverse array of creative professionals each year. From acclaimed songwriters and filmmakers to groundbreaking artists and video game innovators, Austin’s creative talents have made the state famous with their visionary works.
The city’s cultural calendar is a perpetual celebration of creativity, featuring iconic events such as the SXSW Music, Film, and Interactive Festival, the Austin City Limits Music Festival, and the Fantastic Fest. These festivals attract audiences from around the globe, offering immersive experiences that blur the lines between art, music, and technology.
From individual artists and creators to non-profit arts and culture organizations, the presence of numerous talents within Austin has spurred the growth of a rich and diverse cultural ecosystem. The city’s 2012 Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan recognizes the creative economy as a priority, identifying industries such as gaming, digital media, and film as essential levers for the local economy’s growth.
As a Creative City of Media Arts, Austin envisions integrating media arts into the public sphere by commissioning local artists to manage public arts projects and events. The city aims to promote the development of media arts through initiatives like the Creative Content Incentives and Cultural Funding Programs, providing financial support and resources for emerging talents.
Additionally, Austin plans to enhance virtual and local artist-in-residence programs, facilitating exchange opportunities and internships for students in the field of new media. The city also envisions fostering exchanges between the Creative Cities of Media Arts through trade missions involving creative ambassadors from the private sector and establishing traveling exhibitions to showcase the works of artists from other cities in the network.
With its thriving creative scene, commitment to innovation, and emphasis on cross-sector collaboration, Austin continues to cement its position as a global hub where art, music, and digital technology converge, shaping the future of media arts and inspiring generations to come.
9. Enghien-les-Bains, France: A Digital Arts Powerhouse
In the charming city of Enghien-les-Bains, France, media arts have been at the forefront of a coordinated strategy for over a decade, driving cultural, artistic, and social development. Designated a UNESCO City of Media Arts in 2013, Enghien-les-Bains has embraced digital creation as a catalyst for transforming the city and its economy.
At the heart of this endeavor lies the Arts Centre, a space for digital creation subsidized by the French Ministry for Culture and Communication. This cutting-edge facility serves as a hub for creation, research, production, and dissemination, offering a demanding annual program and implementing numerous mediation activities aimed at diverse audiences.
With its state-of-the-art artistic and technical expertise, the Arts Centre has become a platform for exchanges and debates on the links between arts, science, and technology, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.
Enghien-les-Bains has emerged as a source of attraction for media arts enthusiasts and professionals alike. The city’s urban spaces are revitalized through ambitious video-mapping projects, and the Bains Numériques international biennial transforms the city into an open laboratory, showcasing a wide range of artistic proposals, international competitions, and professional meetings.
The city’s commitment to media arts extends beyond its borders, as Enghien-les-Bains is involved in partnerships and actions through the RAN (Network of Media Arts), initiated by the Arts Centre in 2007. This global network, comprising around 40 members worldwide, facilitates collaborations, co-productions, and knowledge sharing across different regions, including Canada, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and Africa.
As a Creative City of Media Arts, Enghien-les-Bains envisions bringing local actors together around a common strategy supporting digital creation. The city aims to encourage stronger citizen participation in media arts projects, fostering a sense of community and ensuring accessibility to culture for all.
Moreover, Enghien-les-Bains is committed to sharing its expertise with other member cities and fulfilling its role as the Coordinator in the Media Arts city group. This includes supporting the mobility of digital works and artists through a common co-production and co-diffusion platform, creating a monitoring tool for the emergence of new artistic scripts and forms, and strengthening the position of the Media Arts cities within the network by implementing a joint communication strategy and fostering synergies between media arts and other creative sectors.
With its unwavering dedication to digital creation, international collaborations, and citizen engagement, Enghien-les-Bains stands as a shining example of how media arts can transform a city, bringing together diverse communities and fostering a vibrant, innovative, and inclusive cultural landscape.
10. Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel: A Global Start-up City for Media Arts
In the heart of Israel’s vibrant coastal region lies Tel Aviv-Yafo, a city that has emerged as the business, financial, and commercial hub of the country’s booming high-tech industry. With a unique economy driven by a large concentration of start-up companies in fields such as media arts, Tel Aviv-Yafo has rightfully earned its reputation as one of the world’s leading “start-up cities.”
As the cultural center of Israel, Tel Aviv-Yafo is home to numerous artistic institutions, fostering an environment conducive to creativity and innovation. The city’s open attitude, enjoyable surroundings, and civic support mechanisms have contributed to its transformation into a center of creativity, attracting young, creative entrepreneurs, students, and artists from around the globe.
The city’s thriving technology ecosystem generates a multitude of technology-focused events, including hundreds of “meetups,” conferences, “hackathons,” competitions, and other media arts gatherings every year. These platforms provide invaluable opportunities for exchanging ideas, networking, and fostering collaborations, further fueling the city’s creative spirit.
Tel Aviv-Yafo’s “start-up ecosystem” acts as a magnet, attracting talent, investors, companies, and capital from Israel and beyond. The city’s founders of software companies, leaders of demand-led economic activities, and next-generation creators of media arts contribute to the city’s vibrancy and innovative spirit.
Currently, Tel Aviv-Yafo is pursuing a strategy to position itself as a global center of technology and innovation. This initiative involves collaborations between academic institutions, research and development centers, leading technology companies, the young creative sector, cultural centers, artists, and local and national governments. By fostering these synergies, the city aims to harness the resources generated by the technology and creative sectors, ensuring that all segments of society benefit from the creation of a better, fairer, and more sustainable future.
As a Creative City of Media Arts, Tel Aviv-Yafo envisions learning from other cities’ experiences in channeling resources to benefit all communities. The city is eager to share its ideas and experiences in fostering entrepreneurship and creativity, offering valuable insights to other cities working to develop their own creative ecosystems.
Moreover, Tel Aviv-Yafo offers the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) direct access to the city’s advances in technology, with a view to applying them to civic, social, and artistic objectives. By leveraging its technological prowess and creative spirit, Tel Aviv-Yafo aims to contribute to the global discourse on media arts, fostering international collaborations and driving innovation in the field.
11. Karlsruhe, Germany: A Cradle of Media Communication
In the southwestern region of Germany, bordering France, lies the city of Karlsruhe, a vibrant metropolis that has earned a reputation as a “cradle of modern media communication.” With a population of around 312,000 inhabitants, Karlsruhe has emerged as one of the fastest-growing cities in Germany, renowned for its excellence in contemporary art and media art.
Karlsruhe’s success in the realm of media arts is deeply rooted in its collaborative approach, uniting research, education, and industry. The city is home to the globally recognized University of Arts and Design (HfG), which fosters a symbiotic relationship between academia and artistic expression, nurturing the next generation of media arts pioneers.
By 2017, Karlsruhe had established a thriving ecosystem of 1,460 design and media art companies, representing a staggering 9.9% of local businesses. These enterprises provide job opportunities to over 14,933 employees across 11 sectors of the cultural and creative industries, with a particularly strong focus on the software and games sectors.
Events such as Global Digitale, Open Codes, and the ARD Radio Play Days are testament to the outstanding importance of Karlsruhe as the heartland of media art. The city also hosts specialist conferences, such as the Security in Digital Infrastructures and the New Forms of Communication Change Politics and Culture, promoting knowledge sharing within the industry and showcasing Karlsruhe’s media art capabilities on a global stage.
The Cultural Concept 2025 of the City of Karlsruhe, adopted in 2014, sets out a comprehensive roadmap for the municipal cultural policy, emphasizing the strengthening of links between art, science, and technology. Media education is a core component of this strategy, with Karlsruhe recognizing its unique strength in the convergence of these disciplines.
As a Creative City of Media Arts, Karlsruhe envisions facilitating collaboration in media art projects from other Creative Cities, sharing its know-how and experience in urban development characterized by its cultural and creative economy. The city aims to expand the international collaborative network of the ZKM | Center for Art and Media Karlsruhe within the UCCN, in collaboration with the Goethe-Institut, fostering global partnerships and knowledge exchange.
Furthermore, Karlsruhe is committed to funding the intensification of international networking and exchange in the UCCN through travel grants and artists-in-residence programs, ensuring that media arts talents have access to diverse perspectives and opportunities for growth. The city also seeks to collaborate with partners from cities and countries in the Global South, promoting cross-cultural dialogue and inclusive representation within the media arts landscape.
With its rich heritage, academic excellence, and unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and creativity, Karlsruhe stands as a beacon of inspiration for media arts professionals, students, and enthusiasts alike, shaping the future of this dynamic field through collaboration, education, and cutting-edge research.
12. Košice, Slovakia: A Creative Hotspot for Media Arts
In the heart of Slovakia’s second-largest city, Košice, a vibrant and dynamic creative scene has taken root, fueled by the city’s thriving ICT sector and a young, vibrant creative community. Over the past decade, employment within the city’s creative industries and ICT field has experienced remarkable growth, making it the fastest-growing segment of Košice’s economy.
Košice embraced its transformative journey from an industrial hub to a creative environment with the implementation of the European Capital of Culture 2013 project. This long-term plan laid the foundation for the city’s metamorphosis, positioning media arts as a driving force behind its economic and cultural development.
The city’s creative ecosystem is bolstered by a tapestry of international projects and events, such as the White Night and Art & Tech Days festivals, the renowned KAIR international artist-in-residency program, and creative spaces like the DIG Gallery, Kunsthalle, Kasárne Kulturpark, Tabačka Kulturfabrik, and Kotolňa. These platforms provide opportunities for young digital artists and internationally acclaimed curated exhibitions to thrive, fostering a vibrant and inclusive media arts community.
With the aim of facilitating sustainable development in the fields of culture and creativity, Košice has implemented the Culture Strategy 2014-2018 and the Košice 2020 Creative Economy Masterplan. The city also supports the local art scene through its not-for-profit organization, Creative Industry Košice, which implements mobility and educational programs for artists and cultural professionals, further nurturing the city’s creative talents.
As a Creative City of Media Arts, Košice envisions establishing a Creative Centre as a global hub for media arts professionals and artists, providing access to new technologies and enabling collaborative projects. The city also plans to revitalize the Mlynský náhon (former millrun), connecting Tabačka and Kunsthalle through the creation of a new cultural and recreational zone, further enhancing the city’s artistic landscape.
Moreover, Košice aims to launch a participatory platform utilizing digital technologies, gamification processes, and virtual reality, involving city residents, including those from disadvantaged and marginalized groups, in solving urban issues. This innovative approach fosters inclusivity and empowers communities to shape the city’s future through the lens of media arts.
Recognizing the importance of knowledge-sharing and global collaboration, Košice plans to develop the Art Portal, an online platform to systematically gather relevant artistic and creative content, inform about current events in the international media arts scene, and exchange best practices from other Creative Cities of Media Arts.
Additionally, the city will organize the International Media Award, Symposium, and Exhibition, a thematic and site-specific competition open to young media artists, including those from the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), further solidifying Košice’s position as a hub for emerging talents and fostering cross-cultural dialogue.
With its commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and global collaboration, Košice has emerged as a creative hotspot for media arts, embracing the power of technology and artistic expression to drive sustainable urban development and foster a vibrant, interconnected creative community.
13. Linz, Austria: A Trailblazer in Media Arts
Ever since the inception of the renowned Ars Electronica festival and the Cloud of Sound in 1979, the city of Linz – Europe’s 2009 Capital of Culture – has been a trailblazer and international hotbed of media arts and digital competence. The annual Ars Electronica Festival and Prix Ars Electronica showcase and honor excellence in media culture, delivering essential impetus to the field worldwide while setting global benchmarks for innovation and creativity.
At the heart of Linz’s media arts ecosystem lies the Ars Electronica Centre and Futurelab, serving as driving forces for innovation in research, development, and education throughout the region. These cutting-edge facilities foster a dynamic environment where artists, researchers, and educators collaborate to push the boundaries of what’s possible in media arts.
Today, Linz is focused on transforming a former industrial site located in the heart of the inner city into a center of the creative economy: the Linz’s Tabakfabrik campus. This ambitious project aims to create a vibrant hub where creative industries, arts, and technology converge, nurturing a thriving ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship.
At the core of the Tabakfabrik campus is Creative Region, Linz and Upper Austria’s creative industries development company, spearheading initiatives to support and promote the growth of the region’s creative sectors.
Linz is also at the forefront of fostering open access to networks and content, with the city setting its sights on becoming Europe’s first Open Commons region. By embracing open-source principles and encouraging collaboration, Linz aims to democratize knowledge-sharing and drive innovation across various disciplines, including media arts.
Furthermore, the City of Linz is taking steps to preserve and promote the legacy of renowned performance and media artist Valie Export. By acquiring a substantial part of her oeuvre, the city plans to establish a brand-new research center, ensuring that her groundbreaking contributions to media arts are accessible to future generations and serve as an inspiration for emerging artists.
With its rich cultural heritage and a strong emphasis on urban development that accentuates culture and the creative economy, Linz possesses the know-how and experience in high-level cooperation to contribute significantly to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN).
As a Creative City of Media Arts, Linz envisions exploring synergistic benefits for the Network in conjunction with Ars Electronica’s worldwide activities and its far-reaching global network. The city offers high-quality education and training in media arts and media culture, fostering numerous collaborative possibilities for instructors and students from around the world.
Additionally, Linz aims to share best-practice projects related to open access of networks and content, fostering a culture of collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the media arts community.
By nurturing an active media culture scene featuring a wide array of production sites and creative hubs, Linz provides a fertile ground for artists, researchers, and entrepreneurs to thrive. The city envisions developing attractive strategic possibilities to expand the Ars Electronica Residency Network by partnering with the UCCN, creating new opportunities for cross-cultural exchange and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Moreover, Linz is eager to share its expertise in archiving and scholarly work on media arts, as well as the integration of the regional media culture scene and the creative economy. Through pilot projects set up in the Linz’s Tabakfabrik campus, the city aims to showcase innovative approaches to fostering synergies between art, technology, and entrepreneurship.
With its rich legacy, cutting-edge facilities, and unwavering commitment to innovation, Linz continues to blaze a trail in the realm of media arts, setting the stage for a future where creativity, technology, and culture converge to shape the world around us.
14. Lyon, France: Embracing the Digital Revolution
In the historic city of Lyon, France, media arts have taken center stage as the city embraces the digital revolution and its transformative impact on artistic and cultural expression. Since being designated a Creative City of Media Arts by UNESCO in 2008, Lyon has witnessed a flourishing of projects and initiatives aimed at carrying out a reflection on digital cultural policy across the city.
One of the main focal points of Lyon’s digital transformation has been the Municipal Library, which has spearheaded the creation of the Digital Library of Lyon (NUMELYO), a cutting-edge platform that provides access to a wealth of digital resources and promotes the preservation of the city’s cultural heritage through innovative technologies.
The city’s museums have also embraced the digital age, implementing interactive heritage point projects and digital strategies to enhance visitor experiences and engage audiences in new and exciting ways.
In the realm of performing arts, venues such as the Théatre nouvelle génération and the Théatre des ateliers have opened their doors to digital creations, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations between media arts and other art forms, resulting in captivating and immersive experiences for audiences.
The city of Lyon has also demonstrated its commitment to supporting and promoting media arts through various initiatives and events. The Festival Mirage, dedicated to media arts, and the renowned Nuits Sonores festival showcase the works of cutting-edge artists and provide platforms for experimentation and exploration.
Furthermore, the iconic Fête des lumières, Lyon’s major event that attracts over 3 million visitors to each edition, has embraced media arts in recent years, featuring the works of digital artists and transforming the city into a canvas for light, color, and innovation.
As a creative powerhouse, Lyon and the surrounding metropolitan area boast a thriving digital economy and creative industries sector, representing 7,000 companies and 42,000 jobs. The city has identified these industries as essential levers for the local economy and is actively supporting their growth and development.
One of the city’s most ambitious projects is the creation of the Halle Girard, a dedicated space for the digital world located in the Confluence District. This state-of-the-art facility, set to open by the end of 2016, will serve as a hub for startups, entrepreneurs, and innovators, fostering collaboration and driving the city’s digital transformation forward.
As a Creative City of Media Arts, Lyon envisions cooperating with international media arts festivals, hosting artists from other cities in the Network, developing digital libraries, and organizing meetings to discuss the evolution of cultural policies in the face of the digital revolution.
Through its commitment to embracing new technologies, supporting artistic expression, and fostering a thriving creative economy, Lyon is positioning itself as a global leader in media arts, shaping the future of how we experience and interact with art in the digital age.
15. Toronto, Canada: Where Creativity and Innovation Converge
Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, Toronto is Canada’s largest city, with a population of 2.9 million inhabitants. This vibrant metropolis has a rich history of pioneering media arts, dating back to the 1950s when the Toronto School of Communication, led by the renowned Marshall McLuhan, was one of the first to promote the impact of media technology on creativity.
Following this legacy, in the 1990s, major institutions such as the Media Lab of the Canadian Film Centre emerged in Toronto’s media arts sector, providing platforms for cross-sectoral collaboration and fostering a thriving creative community.
Today, Toronto’s strengths in the visual arts have resulted in significant growth within the sector, achieving record-breaking production levels and generating over US$2 billion in 2016. The city’s media arts scene is fueled by a diverse array of artists’ collectives, cutting-edge creators, and a dynamic not-for-profit sector that continuously explores new forms of artistic expression and creates spaces for marginalized and underrepresented communities.
Toronto benefits from a thriving education sector that enables and promotes media arts through a variety of institutions, including the renowned Ryerson University’s DMZ, the leading university-based incubator in North America. This innovation hub provides a fertile ground for emerging talents and entrepreneurs to develop their ideas and collaborate with industry experts.
Media arts also feature prominently in the city’s public art program, with events like Nuit Blanche Toronto, a city-wide celebration of contemporary art, transforming the urban landscape into an open-air gallery and immersive experience.
The City of Toronto provides significant support to media arts hubs such as 401 Richmond, Artscape Daniels Launchpad, and the Centre for Social Innovation, fostering vibrant creative communities and providing resources for artists and entrepreneurs to thrive.
In recent years, the City of Toronto has made significant investments in culture, with the Toronto Arts Council (TAC) seeing an increase in its grants budget of 80% from 2012 to 2016. One example of TAC funding includes US$36,000 granted in 2016 to Subtle Technologies, a platform for community-building and knowledge-sharing at the intersection of art, science, and technology.
As a Creative City of Media Arts, Toronto envisions embedding culture in the earliest stages of the City’s urban planning by supporting the retention of affordable, cultural spaces downtown to enhance creative clusters. The city aims to partner with the Toronto Music Advisory Committee to promote music in media arts and develop opportunities for artists and audiences alike.
Additionally, Toronto is pursuing the development of a physical hub for the city’s film festivals, allowing them to share information, volunteer networks, and coordinate festival schedules where possible. This initiative will further strengthen the city’s vibrant film and media arts community.
To increase awareness and promote dialogue, Toronto plans to partner with the University of Toronto’s McLuhan Centre for Culture and Technology, supporting events and programming that celebrate the city’s rich legacy in media arts and communication theory.
Furthermore, the city envisions planning and producing a one-day conference for the media arts community, fostering sector development, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration among artists, educators, and industry professionals.
With its rich cultural heritage, commitment to fostering creativity and innovation, and unwavering support for the arts, Toronto continues to cement its position as a global hub where media arts thrive, inspiring and empowering a new generation of artists and creators.
16. Changsha, China: A Fusion of Heritage and Innovation
In the heart of China’s Hunan province, the city of Changsha stands as a testament to the fusion of rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit. With a population of 7.64 million inhabitants, Changsha is an innovation hub that significantly invests in its cultural and creative industries, accounting for the largest share of the local economy.
As of 2016, the city boasted an impressive 12,815 established creative enterprises and 610,000 practitioners, generating 13.1% of Changsha’s employment and a staggering gross output of US$36.07 billion. By embracing the cross-cutting and inclusive nature of media arts, Changsha has harnessed its potential to rejuvenate the urban landscape while preserving its outstanding cultural heritage.
The city of Changsha has developed a variety of creative programs and events aimed at enhancing cultural life and enabling its citizens to rediscover their rich cultural history. One such initiative is the popular Orange Island grand digital rework displays, which take place on special occasions and public holidays, transforming the city into a living canvas of light and sound.
Another successful example of the use of technology to protect local heritage is the Time Travel to Han Dynasty project. This innovative initiative utilizes virtual reality technology to reproduce the life of Changsha’s citizens, stretching back to the foundations of the city, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the city’s storied past.
Furthermore, the Digital Ancient Calligraphy and Painting Museum showcases the history of Chinese calligraphy and painting through cutting-edge digital devices, offering a unique and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
Changsha Municipal Government actively works towards developing an environment that encourages young people to engage with the creative sector. The Sky City Education Centre offers training courses on digital film, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and augmented reality, nurturing the next generation of media arts talents.
Within its current action plan, Changsha aims to foster more synergies between creative fields and fully integrate culture as a strategic motor into the city’s overall planning for economic and social development.
As a Creative City of Media Arts, Changsha envisions establishing an urban creative and cultural corridor aimed at fostering citizen participation in creative activities. The city also plans to organize an annual, large-scale event displaying the latest media trends and engaging other UNESCO Creative Cities, fostering global collaboration and knowledge-sharing.
To improve the quality of urban life, Changsha aims to develop the ‘Smart Changsha’ platform, providing an opportunity to share information on creative activities and events, enhancing accessibility and community engagement.
Additionally, the city plans to share knowledge with other Creative Cities on performing digital modeling of calligraphy and painted works, showcasing its expertise in preserving and promoting traditional art forms through modern technologies.
In an effort to support young creative talents, Changsha will launch the Asian and Africa Youth Creative Talent Programme within the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), fostering cross-cultural exchange and providing opportunities for emerging artists and creators.
Furthermore, Changsha is committed to raising awareness about the UCCN through diverse communication and media channels, showcasing the city’s vibrant creative scene and promoting the network’s mission of fostering cultural diversity and sustainable urban development.
With its rich cultural tapestry, commitment to innovation, and embrace of media arts as a driving force for urban regeneration and social cohesion, Changsha stands as a shining example of how a city can harness its creativity to shape a brighter, more inclusive, and sustainable future.
17. Namur, Belgium: A Laboratory of Ideas
In the heart of Belgium, the city of Namur stands as an intelligent city, setting an example for sustainable development and human progress. With creativity and technological advancement as driving forces, Namur abounds with industrial, academic, and institutional actors who actively participate in transforming the city into an innovative territory, a true laboratory of ideas.
In 2014, Namur embarked on a long-term project, the Namur Innovative City Lab, which has overseen the foundation of a program for the digital and sustainable transformation of its territory, based on the creativity of its citizens, artists, and entrepreneurs.
Aside from these major structuring projects, Namur Innovative City Lab includes the creation of TRAKK, a digital incubator, a Fab Lab, and an adapted animation program that merges entrepreneurs, digital artists, students, and creative communities. Furthermore, Namur is collaborating with key players in the fields of media and technology to bolster urban policy, industry support, and development, enabling the city to become part of the global digital transformation and democratizing public access to innovation, digital technology, and digital arts.
As a Creative City of Media Arts, Namur recognizes the importance of strengthening research, creation, production, management, and circulation of media arts and other creative sectors within the city. The city aims to build on existing initiatives and connect them to the international scene, benefiting the Network’s member cities through the exchange of experiences and expertise.
Namur’s commitment to media arts extends to developing the city’s infrastructure, with plans to build creative hubs that cater to professionals and the general public alike. Additionally, the city aims to make education accessible, inclusive, and address educational disparities, ensuring that administrative resources follow guidelines through the creation of an independent budgeting program for infrastructure and projects in media arts.
Furthermore, Namur is committed to promoting urban development in collaboration with municipal departments, such as Eco Politics and Nighttime Economy, as well as in partnership with the private sector.
18. Gwangju, South Korea: A Laboratory of Media Arts Innovation
In the vibrant city of Gwangju, media arts are not just a form of expression but a laboratory of innovation, seamlessly blending artistic tradition, democratic values, human rights, high-tech science, and cutting-edge technology – all key components of the city’s rich past and dynamic present.
Thanks to its thriving photonics industry and R&D district, Gwangju has emerged as a high-tech hotspot for science and technology research. The city’s media-content industry, LED industry, and design industry are also major driving forces behind the development of its media arts sector.
Gwangju serves as a cultural and artistic hub for South Korea, where media arts connect the city’s contemporary art talents with cutting-edge technologies. The city hosts numerous cultural and artistic events, such as the prestigious Gwangju Biennale, the Media Arts Festival, and the Asia Culture Forum, all of which contribute to expanding new horizons in media arts and fostering a vibrant creative community.
In an effort to integrate media arts into the everyday lives of its citizens, Gwangju is engaging in numerous public projects that reflect the artistic value of media arts. These initiatives provide professional development spaces for the media arts sector and promote collaboration among artists, including through residency programs.
As a Creative City of Media Arts, Gwangju envisions sharing its cultural and artistic capacities, as well as its accomplishments in the culture industry, with the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) by establishing partnerships with other Cities of Media Arts. Through these collaborations, Gwangju aims to facilitate the exchange of knowledge, best practices, and creative talents, fostering a global network of innovation and artistic expression.
Moreover, the city plans to provide a dedicated space for creative talents, positioning itself as a hub for cultural and artistic exchanges within the National Asia Culture Complex. This state-of-the-art facility will serve as a platform for artists, researchers, and industry professionals to collaborate, showcase their work, and explore new frontiers in media arts.
By harnessing the synergies between technology, art, and cultural heritage, Gwangju is paving the way for a future where media arts are not just a form of artistic expression but a catalyst for social change, fostering dialogue, promoting human rights, and inspiring creativity on a global scale.
19. York, United Kingdom: Where Heritage Meets Innovation
For two millennia, the city of York has been a meeting point for ideas and creativity, serving as a cultural crossroads where artistic expression and innovation have flourished. Founded as a Roman fortress in 71 AD, York’s world-class heritage continues to be its cultural centerpiece, attracting over seven million visitors per year.
In York, media arts are the engine driving the city’s continued development and evolution. Over the past decade, the city has championed investment in its cultural institutions, initiating iconic activities such as the Illuminating York Festival and the revival of the renowned York Mystery Plays. Through these initiatives, York has emphasized the value of culture in various sectors, including hospitality, education, and marketing, further strengthening its position as a cultural destination.
The city’s commitment to promoting social equality and fostering human talent is reflected in the strong relationship between creative activity and economic prosperity. York is dedicated to ensuring that everyone benefits from its designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Media Arts, regardless of their background or location.
As a Creative City of Media Arts, York is mobilizing creativity to strengthen the local economy, increase public participation in culture, renew investment in the city’s academic institutions and human capital, and contribute to the overall quality of life for its residents and visitors.
To achieve these goals, York envisions constructing a Digital and Media Arts Centre, a cutting-edge facility that will blend innovation, public participation, and industry collaboration. This center will serve as a hub for media arts professionals, artists, and enthusiasts, fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration and nurturing the city’s vibrant creative community.
Additionally, York plans to develop an international program of cultural festivals showcasing media arts, providing a platform for local and global talents to exhibit their work and engage with audiences from around the world. The city also envisions organizing an annual awards ceremony to recognize and reward creative talents, celebrating their contributions to the field of media arts and inspiring future generations of artists.
Recognizing the power of international collaboration and knowledge-sharing, York aims to facilitate research, ideas, and artwork exchanges with Network partners, fostering a global dialogue and promoting cross-cultural understanding through the lens of media arts.
Furthermore, the city is committed to supporting artist residencies in partnership with other Creative Cities, providing opportunities for artists to immerse themselves in new cultural contexts, exchange knowledge, and explore new artistic perspectives.
With its rich heritage, commitment to innovation, and dedication to fostering a vibrant creative ecosystem, York stands as a shining example of how a city can embrace its past while shaping its future, leveraging media arts as a powerful tool for cultural expression, social cohesion, and sustainable urban development.
20. Sapporo, Japan: A Hub of Citizen-Generated Media Arts
In the vibrant city of Sapporo, media arts are not confined within the walls of art museums; instead, they thrive throughout the urban landscape, expressing the city’s rich cultural diversity. Thanks to the democratizing effect of digital media, the once-inaccessible realms of cultural expression, such as music, publishing, and broadcasting, are now being dismantled, and the means of expression are becoming widely available to the general public.
Sapporo is home to a range of cultural institutions that celebrate and nurture the arts, including the renowned Sapporo Concert Hall “Kitara”, renowned for its exceptional acoustics, and the Sapporo Art Park, a vast artistic space that encompasses the Sapporo Art Museum, among other facilities.
The city’s increasingly active and growing citizen-generated media landscape is nurtured by Sapporo’s cultural openness and pioneering spirit. Sapporo fully embraces information and communication technologies (ICTs), digital content, and contemporary social media, fostering an environment conducive to creative expression and innovation.
The creative sector related to social and mobile media is particularly well-developed in the city. As the birthplace of Hatsune Miku, an internationally popular Vocaloid singing synthesizer software, Sapporo has a high concentration of leading creators contributing to contemporary Japanese youth culture.
In summary, Sapporo is an active production center of media arts, where citizens are empowered to express their creativity and shape the city’s cultural landscape.
As a Creative City of Media Arts, Sapporo envisions engaging in global exchange with other cities, encouraging creative pursuits by fostering domestic enterprises, and further developing the media arts sector. The city aims to promote media arts-based urban revitalization projects and industrial promotion initiatives that can be applicable to other Creative Cities, fostering knowledge-sharing and inspiring innovation.
Sapporo is committed to supporting other Creative Cities by sharing the success stories of its entrepreneurs who are active in industries that support consumer-generated media (CGM) and user-generated content (UGC), such as software company founders, leaders of demand-led economic activities, and next-generation creators of media arts. By showcasing these success stories, the city aims to inspire and empower creative communities globally.
Furthermore, Sapporo plans to further promote citizen-generated media and content development, leading to the creation of globally marketable CGM products. This initiative not only fosters creative expression but also contributes to the city’s economic growth and international recognition.
Recognizing the potential of media arts to enhance the city’s tourism industry, Sapporo aims to apply media arts in various ways to attract more visitors and strengthen its reputation as a cultural destination. By integrating artistic expression into the visitor experience, the city hopes to showcase its vibrant creative scene and provide unique and immersive experiences for travelers.
Through its commitment to fostering citizen-generated media arts, nurturing local talent, and promoting international collaboration, Sapporo stands as a beacon of creativity and cultural diversity, empowering its citizens to shape the city’s narrative and contribute to the global discourse on media arts.
21. Tbilisi: A Vibrant Hub of Creativity and Innovation
In the heart of Georgia, nestled between ancient traditions and modern aspirations, lies the city of Tbilisi – a vibrant hub where media arts are thriving. Prepare to be captivated as we take you on a journey through this urban gem, where creativity knows no bounds.
As you wander the streets of Tbilisi, you’ll stumble upon multifunctional libraries that offer more than just books. These spaces are a celebration of culture, hosting exhibitions, performances, and workshops that bring the community together. But that’s just the beginning.
Imagine stepping into one of the city’s 33 art schools, where artistic expression takes center stage. From music and crafts to oratory, these institutions provide a nurturing environment for professionals and aspiring talents alike, fostering an ecosystem where creativity can flourish.
Tbilisi’s vision for the future is as bold as it is ambitious. The city is embarking on a holistic approach to cultural development, one that interweaves media arts with other creative fields, such as business, music, and design. Picture a network of Youth Hubs, each one a multi-functional space dedicated to innovation, technology, photography, architecture, and sustainable urban development.
But what truly sets Tbilisi apart is its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. These hubs will be strategically located throughout the city, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their location, has equal access to the wealth of opportunities on offer.
At the heart of this ambitious project lies a state-of-the-art complex, a veritable mecca for artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators. Imagine a space that seamlessly blends art studios, meeting rooms, conference halls, and a contemporary library, all under one roof. This is where dreams become reality, where the boundaries between disciplines blur, and where cross-pollination of ideas is the norm.
As a Creative City of Media Arts, Tbilisi is committed to fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors, ensuring that no voice goes unheard. Through communication channels and awareness-raising programs, the city aims to bridge the gap between creativity and the wider community.
But Tbilisi’s ambitions don’t stop there. The city is actively seeking international cooperation, forging partnerships that will bring foreign residency programs, training opportunities, and international events to its doorstep. This global exchange of ideas and talents is the lifeblood of a truly creative city.
So, get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry that is Tbilisi, where tradition and modernity intertwine, and where media arts are a driving force for innovation, cultural expression, and sustainable urban development.
22.Santiago de Cali: Where Creativity and Culture Collide
In the heart of southwestern Colombia, nestled between the Andes and the Pacific Ocean, lies the city of Santiago de Cali – a cultural melting pot where media arts are flourishing. Prepare to be swept away by the unique blend of artistic expression, technological innovation, and a deep-rooted commitment to diversity.
As you explore the streets of Santiago de Cali, you’ll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of cultures, each one leaving an indelible mark on the city’s artistic landscape. From visual arts and performing arts to software development, this urban center has established itself as an industry leader, generating over US$ 1.7 million in annual sales and contributing a significant 2.2% to the regional GDP.
But what truly sets Santiago de Cali apart is its unwavering dedication to fostering creativity and social change through media arts. Imagine attending the Truca Festival, the country’s first and only event exclusively dedicated to animation. Here, local and international experts come together to host a myriad of workshops, exploring everything from experimental animation and transmedia to performative arts and filmmaking.
This festival is more than just a celebration of creativity; it’s a platform for growth and opportunity. Young media arts students and designers are given the chance to explore the field’s diverse themes, igniting a passion that will shape the city’s creative future.
Santiago de Cali’s commitment to media arts is deeply rooted in its history. Since the 1990s, these artistic expressions have played a pivotal role in the city’s development, driving social change and fostering a sense of community. Initiatives like the Estimulos grant have provided financial support for creative projects, championing digital arts and promoting activities such as curatorial residencies, exhibition festivals, production, and post-production.
But the city’s ambitions don’t stop there. The 10-year culture plan 2028 is a testament to Santiago de Cali’s unwavering commitment to creativity, stimulating research, production, and dissemination of cultural manifestations while promoting respect for interculturality, freedom, and human rights.
As a Creative City of Media Arts, Santiago de Cali envisions a future where media arts are woven into the fabric of society, overcoming barriers and fostering inclusive participation. Imagine public spaces transformed into canvases for creative expression, where vulnerable communities are empowered through education, innovative processes, and artistic collaborations.
The city is also committed to fostering cooperation with other members of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, sharing experiences, knowledge, and human capital formation. This global exchange is a catalyst for new markets, new opportunities, and a deeper understanding of the transformative power of media arts.
So, get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry that is Santiago de Cali, where creativity and culture collide, where media arts are celebrated and nurtured, and where innovation is the driving force behind sustainable urban development and social change.
Conclusion
As we conclude our journey through the Creative Cities of Media Arts, it’s impossible not to be awestruck by the sheer creativity, innovation, and passion that these urban centers embody. From the bustling streets of Santiago de Cali to the vibrant hubs of Tbilisi, we’ve witnessed firsthand how media arts are transforming cities, challenging conventions, and inspiring a new generation of artists, innovators, and changemakers.
At the heart of this global network lies a shared vision: to harness the power of media arts as a catalyst for sustainable urban development, social inclusion, and cultural expression. These 22 cities, spanning five continents, are united in their commitment to nurturing creativity, fostering cross-cultural collaborations, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Imagine walking through the streets of Enghien-les-Bains in France, where ambitious video-mapping projects transform the cityscape into an open-air canvas, or exploring the cutting-edge digital exhibits at the Ars Electronica Center in Linz, Austria. These are just glimpses of the extraordinary experiences that await you in these Creative Cities of Media Arts.
But it’s not just about the spectacle; these cities are also nurturing vibrant communities of artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators. In Toronto, Canada, you’ll discover how the city is fostering creative clusters and supporting media arts hubs, while Karlsruhe, Germany, is home to a thriving software and games sector, putting it at the forefront of digital innovation.
The stories of Santiago de Cali and Tbilisi are testament to the transformative power of media arts. In Santiago de Cali, a city rich in cultural diversity, media arts are driving social change and fostering a sense of community. Initiatives like the Estimulos grant have provided financial support for creative projects, championing digital arts and promoting activities that celebrate the city’s vibrant tapestry of cultures.
Meanwhile, in Tbilisi, the city’s vision for the future is as bold as it is ambitious. A network of Youth Hubs, dedicated to innovation, technology, photography, architecture, and sustainable urban development, is set to transform the city into a true mecca for artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators. These multi-functional spaces will ensure that everyone, regardless of their location, has equal access to the wealth of opportunities on offer.
But the impact of these Creative Cities of Media Arts extends far beyond their physical boundaries. Through international collaborations, residency programs, and knowledge-sharing initiatives, these cities are fostering a global exchange of ideas, talents, and best practices. This cross-pollination of creativity is the lifeblood of a truly innovative and inclusive society.
As you’ve witnessed throughout this article, the Creative Cities of Media Arts are not just celebrating media arts; they’re using it as a powerful tool to preserve cultural heritage, promote social inclusion, and drive economic growth. From Changsha, China, where virtual reality technology is being used to recreate the city’s rich cultural history, to Caen, France, where media arts are being integrated into educational contexts, empowering the next generation to become enlightened citizens, the possibilities are endless.
So, what does the future hold for these Creative Cities of Media Arts? The answer lies in their unwavering commitment to innovation, collaboration, and a shared vision of a world where creativity knows no bounds. Whether it’s developing state-of-the-art facilities, hosting renowned festivals, or fostering cross-cultural collaborations, these cities are paving the way for a future where art, technology, and urban living converge in harmonious unison.
As you leave this journey through the Creative Cities of Media Arts, let the stories of these remarkable cities inspire you, challenge you, and ignite a passion for the limitless possibilities that lie ahead. Embrace the transformative power of media arts, and join these cities in shaping a future where creativity reigns supreme, where innovation is the driving force behind sustainable urban development, and where the boundaries between art, technology, and culture are constantly being redefined.
Remember, the Creative Cities of Media Arts are more than just destinations; they’re beacons of hope, reminders of what can be achieved when creativity, passion, and a shared vision collide. So, let these cities be your guide, your muse, and your inspiration as you embark on your own journey of creativity and self-discovery.
