Nature, place and the creative class: Three Canadian case studies

In the natural world, the transfer of resources between landscape features such as the corridors and patches that make up the mosaic of ecological niches is increased where those boundaries are more complex. This article explores this as an analogue for the relationship between natural landscapes and human communities and the possible link between those landscapes greater human diversity and innovation. Using Canadian case study research this article explores the potential link between landscape and human creativity. The case studies are all examples of human communities with higher than average populations of the creative class and with noted landscapes that have influenced the nature and direction of development. We explore the possibility that there is a link between landscape and creativity and consider how this may reflect the potential for cultural diversity and thus the sustainable community development.

Research highlights▶ Three Canadian case studies examining the interaction between landscape and community. ▶ These places noted for their environment have higher than typical populations of the creative class. ▶ There is a possible link between landscape, the creative class and community development.