Pathways into Creative Working Lives

This book explores the realities of pathways into creative work, examining if a creative identification offers new personal and professional possibilities in the precarious contexts of contemporary work and employment. It investigates the experiences of creative career entrants in various national contexts and explores the transitions and obstacles they encounter.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 289 pages
Publication date: 28 August 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the diverse pathways leading to creative work, a realm that continues to captivate aspiring individuals seeking fulfillment and professional opportunities within the cultural and creative industries. While the allure of pursuing one's passion remains strong, the reality of navigating these pathways raises important questions about the potential compromises and new possibilities they offer.

Over the past two decades, a significant surge in aspiring creative workers has embarked on training and higher education courses, driven by the desire to translate personal enthusiasms and amateur activities into income-generating careers. However, the uncertainties of self-employment necessitate the development of skills acquired from other occupations, leading to the emergence of innovative forms of collective organization.

The collection in this book explores the experiences of creative career entrants across a range of national contexts, including Australia, Belgium, China, Ireland, Italy, Finland, the Netherlands, Russia, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Through insightful chapters, it delves into the transitions these individuals undergo as they navigate the complexities of creative pathways, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities they encounter along the way.

Chapter 1 provides an overview of the study, highlighting the growing interest in understanding the dynamics of creative career entrants. Chapter 12 explores the experiences of new workers in the creative industries, shedding light on their motivations, challenges, and strategies for success. Chapter 15 focuses on the role of education and training in shaping creative career entrants, examining the impact of formal education, informal learning, and mentorship on their development.

In addition to these chapters, the book also includes a comprehensive bibliography, providing valuable resources for further research on the topic. This resource is particularly useful for scholars, researchers, and practitioners interested in exploring the complexities of pathways into creative work and the potential they hold for personal and professional growth.

By examining the experiences of creative career entrants across different national contexts, this book offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of cultural and creative industries. It challenges traditional notions of career progression and highlights the importance of adaptability, resilience, and a willingness to embrace new opportunities in a rapidly changing world. Whether you are an aspiring creative worker, a researcher, or a policymaker, this book provides a wealth of knowledge and perspectives that will enrich your understanding of the field.

Weight: 405g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030382483
Edition number: 1st ed. 2020