What is Creative Placemaking and why is Quinte company Strong Enterprises engaging in it?
Creative Placemaking
Creative placemaking is a collaborative process where artists, cultural organizations, businesses and community members come together to shape the physical and social character of a place. This concept involves leveraging the power of the arts to create spaces that are vibrant, inclusive, and reflective of local culture. The aim is not just to beautify an area but to foster a sense of belonging, stimulate economic development, and improve the overall quality of life for residents.
In creative placemaking, art is integrated into the fabric of a community in ways that promote cultural expression, social cohesion, and economic prosperity. This can include public art installations, performance spaces, cultural festivals, and the revitalization of underutilized areas through artistic interventions. The process is deeply participatory, engaging residents and stakeholders in the planning and execution of projects to ensure that the outcomes resonate with the community’s identity and needs.
Strong Enterprises has built new headquarters and decided to engage in creative placemaking to support the community it thrives in. A public call for submissions was just released and details of the call can be found in this blog post.
Why would a Construction Company Engage in Creative Placemaking?
For construction companies, engaging in creative placemaking offers a multitude of benefits that extend beyond traditional development goals. Here are key reasons why construction firms should consider integrating this approach into their projects:
Enhanced Community Engagement and Trust
By involving community members in the design and development process, a business can build stronger relationships with residents. This collaborative approach fosters trust and support, which can be crucial for the successful completion of projects. When people feel that their voices are heard and their culture is respected, they are more likely to embrace new developments.
Increased Property Values and Economic Growth
Art and cultural activities have been shown to drive economic development. According to a study by the Knight Foundation and Gallup, communities with vibrant cultural scenes are more likely to attract and retain talent, which in turn stimulates local economies. Creative placemaking can lead to higher property values, increased tourism, and new business opportunities, making it a smart investment for construction companies.
Improved Aesthetic Appeal and Marketability
Integrating artistic elements into construction projects can significantly enhance their aesthetic appeal, making them more attractive to potential buyers, tenants, and investors. Unique and visually engaging spaces stand out in the market, offering a competitive edge in a crowded real estate landscape.
Sustainable and Resilient Development
Creative placemaking often emphasizes sustainability and resilience. Projects that incorporate green spaces, public art, and community gathering areas contribute to the environmental and social well-being of an area. This aligns with growing consumer and regulatory demands for sustainable development practices.
Scientific Evidence and Data on the Impact of Art
Research consistently demonstrates the positive impact of art and cultural activities on communities and businesses. Here are some key findings:
Economic Impact: The arts contribute significantly to economic growth. A report by the National Endowment for the Arts found that arts and cultural production contributed $877.8 billion to the U.S. economy in 2017, accounting for 4.5% of GDP. This highlights the substantial economic potential of integrating art into community development.
Social Cohesion: Art fosters social connections and a sense of community. A study published in the journal *Urban Studies* found that public art projects can enhance social cohesion by creating shared experiences and common spaces for interaction.
Mental Health and Well-being: Engagement with art has been linked to improved mental health and well-being. Research published in the *Journal of Public Health* indicates that participation in cultural activities can reduce stress, enhance mood, and promote overall psychological health.
A Brief History of Placemaking
The roots of placemaking trace back to the mid-20th century, inspired by urbanists such as Jane Jacobs and William H. Whyte. Jacobs championed lively, people-centered cities, while Whyte explored how public spaces could stimulate social interaction. Their pioneering work laid the groundwork for modern placemaking, emphasizing human-scale design, mixed-use development, and community participation.
Over time, placemaking has evolved into a global movement, with cities worldwide adopting its principles to rejuvenate neighbourhoods, advance social equity, and enrich residents’ lives. From public parks and plazas to streetscapes and waterfronts, placemaking initiatives demonstrate that thoughtfully designed spaces can unite people and forge enduring community bonds.
Examples of Great Placemaking across Canada
Canada boasts several exemplary creative placemaking projects that highlight the transformative power of art in community development. Here are a few notable examples:
- The Bentway, Toronto
The Bentway is an innovative public space located under the Gardiner Expressway in Toronto. This urban park features art installations, performance spaces, gardens, and recreational areas, transforming a previously neglected area into a vibrant cultural hub. The Bentway demonstrates how creative placemaking can revitalize underused urban spaces and foster community engagement.
- Pop-Ups on the Bay, Belleville.
The Pop-Ups on the Bay project exemplifies small-scale creative placemaking by transforming West Zwick’s Park into a dynamic community hub. This initiative brings together pop-up shops, food vendors, and artistic installations, creating a lively waterfront destination. The seasonal and temporary nature of the pop-ups ensures a constantly evolving space that attracts both locals and visitors.
By activating this under utilized area, the project fosters local entrepreneurship, supports small businesses, and encourages social interaction. The combination of commerce and culture enhances the economic and social vitality of Belleville, making “Pop-Ups on the Bay” a standout example of how creative placemaking can effectively rejuvenate and enliven public spaces on a smaller scale.
- Quartier des Spectacles, Montreal
Montreal’s Quartier des Spectacles is a prime example of creative placemaking on a grand scale. This district is dedicated to cultural activities, hosting numerous festivals, concerts, and public art installations throughout the year. The area’s dynamic cultural scene has spurred economic development, drawing millions of visitors annually and supporting local businesses.
- Victoria Park, Calgary
Victoria Park in Calgary has undergone a significant transformation through creative placemaking initiatives. Public art installations, cultural events, and community-driven projects have revitalized the area, making it a vibrant and inclusive neighborhood. The Calgary Municipal Land Corporation has been instrumental in spearheading these efforts, showcasing the potential of creative placemaking to drive urban renewal.
No such thing as small change – local businesses can all engage in art
Creative placemaking is a powerful tool for transforming spaces into thriving communities. For construction companies, engaging in this process offers numerous benefits, including enhanced community engagement, increased property values, improved aesthetic appeal, and sustainable development. The scientific evidence supporting the positive impact of art on economic growth, social cohesion, and mental well-being further underscores the value of integrating cultural elements into construction projects.
Canadian examples such as The Distillery District and The Bentway in Toronto illustrate the transformative potential of creative placemaking, providing inspiring models for future initiatives. By embracing creative placemaking, construction companies can not only build structures but also nurture vibrant, resilient, and inclusive communities.
The Opportunity for Quinte Artists
Aligned with its mission to foster creativity and community engagement, Strong Enterprises seeks proposals for three original art pieces—a large mural, a sculpture, and a series of three paintings—that embody its values and celebrate the community’s spirit and heritage. Each piece should encapsulate the themes of “Innovation,” “Community,” and “Heritage,” reflecting the company’s journey, values, and vision. More than an art project, this initiative invites local artists to participate in honoring shared legacies.
Justin Strong, CEO of Strong Enterprises, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, “We are excited to invite local artists to contribute to our new headquarters. This project not only celebrates our commitment to innovation and growth but also strengthens our ties to the community we call home. We look forward to seeing how these art pieces will bring our values and vision to life.
