While a traditional definition of creativity may have been limited to the promotion of culture and the creation of artistic endeavours, new technologies and a demand for creative design are broadening the definition of Creative Industries to include other sectors of the economy such as architecture, drafting and multimedia.  

Both sub-sectors - Traditional Arts and Culture and Applied Arts and Design - use imagination, inspiration and innovation to encourage the development of Calgary's cultural and creative community.  

Within the sector profile, the Creative Industries are broken into two categories of economic activity:  

1. The Traditional Arts and Culture Sector - Participants in this sector include: visual artists, writers, musicians, dancers and actors. This is the group traditionally associated with the faculty of creativity as it relates to arts and culture.  
2. The Applied Arts Sector - These are the professionals who market their creative resources as a product or service, tapping artistic and creative talent as an economic commodity. This category includes media and advertising professionals, web and game designers, software developers, publishers, architects and design specialists, and those involved in research and development furthering innovation. Among its many highlights, Calgary's Creative Industries boast: Access to world class facilities; dedicated education and training; a thriving creative industries market; a vibrant outlet for creativity; and a growing community of artists.

Creative Industries Sector

Fast Facts

Source: Statistics Canada

For additional information, view our sector profile:
Creative Industries Sector Profile - 3,639KB