Idea Premises
Branding is a process of marketing to the true characteristics of a product or region. You can't fake it. North Carolina really does possess an enormous number of individual potters, so pottery is a genuine part of their identity, but that doesn't mean potters can't succeed in other venues distinguished by other brands. Western Maine straddles the past and the future. Its agricultural heritage is still present, but now it expresses itself in fiber farms; sheep, llamas, goats, etc. providing raw material for fiber artists to spin, dye and weave. History and heritage are part of the fabric of the local economy; historic inns, antique and craft shops, fairs and festivals. The historic Scribner's Mill in Harrison was a water powered saw mill built in 1847. It hosts a "Back to the Past" celebration every year which it uses to educate people about the past while it uses the event to raise money for restoration. Creative people of every type are exploring old and new mediums by utilizing some combination of old and new technology. Thus, hand spun wool, hand made boats, hand cut gemstones, hand blown glass, etc. draw on both tradition and new technology at the same time. At the same time, computer generated images and film making are growing while local musicians also operate small recording studios. There is an authenticity to this unspoiled experience that expresses itself in the creative work of the region. Authentic. Independent. Resourceful. You have to posses the last two characteristics if you're going to survive out here. Together, it spells AIR - which is also still very clean


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Toni, Seger I think it's significant that after only a short amount of time in Maine, you've been struck by the amount of available history and the direct connection of Maine values with its history. Heritage is an important part of Creative Economy branding. The purpose of the Maine Downtown program is to revive and stimulate both culture and economics through a recognition of heritage. The microcosm of an historic downtown is a good palate to view the Creative Economy at work. Unlike traditional competitive economics, the Creative Economy runs on collaboration and mutual benefit. The art gallery helps the crafts store which supports the cafe that hires the musicians and hosts the poetry reading. In the aggregate, non-profits working with arts and culture industries can be a potent force in economic development.

Posted Date: 2008-06-01 12:04 PM

Matt, Zito-, MDZdesigns I agree that new mediums are being created by the combination of old and new technology. I think Maine has a huge advantage here as we are rich in historical heritage and values. I am a new resident to Maine less than two years but have been impacted the most by the artistic culture that exists here in Maine. As a technologist, thinker and entrepreneur, I am interested in studying and learning more about our history in Maine. I am currently reading the history of Maine's ship captains and the impact they had on Maine and the world as they brought back goods from foreign lands to Maine. I do agree that creative economy branding markets the historical significance and value of a product or region.

Posted Date: 2008-05-25 09:15 AM