William Knight, manager of the London Design Festival, talks about the influence of creativity on London.
"London has always been influenced by global concerns. Over century's religion, commerce and art have all contributed to making the city what it is. Today, that influence is creativity.
London has a strong creative heritage, in manufacturing, architecture, jewellery fashion and other trades. Latterly it has become a global centre for film post-production, digital design and advertising. Recent research measured the annual contribution of the creative industries to London's economy as £21bn. As a sector it is second only to financial and business services in scale and economic importance.
Figures such as this mean creativity is now being taken more seriously. In no small measures this is due to central government recognising and measuring the potential of harnessing creative talent in the 21st century. The much-derided 'Cool Britannia' exercise was important in re-casting perceptions of the contribution the UK makes to the world’s cultural and creative landscape, but it also lent confidence and defined the sector.
Without doubt, London is the UK’s creative centre. Over 40 per cent of jobs in the UK creative industries are found here. The world now looks to London as a centre for design and creativity. More and more overseas students are enrolling in our world-class art and design colleges, multi national businesses are establishing design centres and designers from around the world want to work in London to tap into the creative communities that are established across the city.
But what is being done to shine a light on the creative excellence that is part of the fabric of the capital? The London Design Festival has been established to bring the brilliance of London’s creative communities to life - if just for a short period in September - once a year.
By dedicating a specific time in London's calendar to showcasing new work and ideas from diverse creative talents and staging a wide programme of events, seminars and exhibitions the Festival is trying to help push design and creativity higher up the agenda. All the activity is aimed at presenting opportunities for domestic and international audiences to engage with design in its broadest sense - over 20 design disciplines were represented in last year’s Festival.
Partner organisations (over 80 in 2004) deliver the majority of the Festival programme. Partners include colleges, museums, galleries and design promotion agencies among others. These different perspectives ensure a rich mix of content, location, style and format.
The third London Design Festival takes place 15-30 September 2005."
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