F1006 Culture, Innovation and Urban Change

The increasing inter-city competition, due to the effects of globalisation, de-industrialisation, the contraction of public funding and the emergence of new economies, has put pressure on city governments which are in search of a new strategies to boost local development.
Environmental, economic and social urgencies, together with sustainability requirements, are moving to the forefront of planning policy and programmes of cities and communities of all sizes.

The inclusion of “culture” in the sustainability dialogue is emerging, as is evident from the variety of tools and programmes for city development and growth, ranging from world-wide mega-events (sport events, flagships projects, Expos), international cultural development programmes (Cultural Capitals; recovery programmes) to urban marketing promotion at a local level.

Objectives

This course aims to provide a critical introduction to the role of culture as a driver of innovation and urban change, enhancing social, economic, and environmental sustainability in cities. Specifically considering how design, planning and urban marketing connected with the topics of events (moving huge public-private investments), leisure and recreation in the urban setting can be effective.

A number of case studies (including Venice and the Veneto, and Barcelona) will be used to illustrate key developments (large-scale sport and cultural events, repackaging of cultural heritage, display of public art
and the like) and to highlight whether and how sustainability issues have been tackled. Field trips related to the course shall be organized.

Through the course the students will:
· Reflect on the crucial role of culture in urban regeneration and development programmes
· Understand the function of mega-events in the context of global and local economy
· Get acquainted with the different perspectives of the impacts of mega-events, flagship programmes
and related investments on cities and regions
· Recognise the importance of integrated planning and policies justifying a multi-stakeholder
perspective and the adoption of participatory approaches.

Course organisation and supervision
The course is organized around three modules. Each module has a special focus and a related case study and field trip. Experts and guest speakers will be invited.
Prof. Margherita Turvani will supervise the course.