Nurturing Creativity in Hard Times: How Jacksonville’s Creative Class Can Lead the Way
The Creative Class: A Beacon in Economic Downturns
Economic downturns test the resilience of communities, and time and again it is the creative class – our artists, musicians, writers, designers, and media makers – who emerge as a vital force for recovery. The creative sector doesn’t just entertain; it builds social cohesion and sparks innovation when we need it most. Research shows that engagement with arts and culture can strengthen community bonds, fostering empowerment, pride, and a shared sense of belonging even in challenging times.
In fact, during the Great Recession of 2008, members of the creative class proved remarkably resilient, maintaining far lower unemployment rates than other groups. As urbanist Richard Florida famously observed, “wherever creativity goes…innovation and economic growth are sure to follow” – even (and especially) in periods of economic hardship. Creatives offer solutions – bringing people together, driving entrepreneurial thinking, and injecting much-needed hope and economic activity into our cities.
Jacksonville’s Moment: A Haven for Creators
In Jacksonville, Florida, we stand at a pivotal moment. The 2023 ACE Committee, formed under Mayor Donna Deegan, revealed that Jacksonville has underfunded its arts sector, leaving millions in unrealized economic benefit. The city is filled with underused city-owned properties that could be repurposed into studios and cultural venues. The administration responded with new funding and grants for individual artists, creating momentum to finally invest in our creative economy.
Jacksonville’s affordability, history, and newly supportive leadership position it to become a national model. With the right investments, the creative class here can thrive, and Jacksonville can claim its identity as a creative haven and economic engine.
Turning “Money Left on the Table” into Opportunity
The ACE Committee’s report outlined missed opportunities in grant matching, tourism, and cultural partnerships. It recommended integrated investment across business, public safety, and education to ensure creativity touches every corner of the city. With more live/work spaces, residencies, and community activation, the city can become a place where creators put down roots.
Bespoke House: Renaissance in Action
Bespoke House Artisan Community is putting these ideas into motion. As a 501(c)(3), we provide space, opportunity, and resources for Jacksonville’s creative class. From co-working and gallery exhibits to streaming studios and marketing mentorship, we embody a bodega-style workshop model that fosters collaboration between apprentices and master artisans.
Our programs give creatives the tools to fund their work, amplify their voices, and connect across sectors. Our ethos – Renaissance over revolution – prioritizes sustainable, collaborative growth rooted in legacy and mentorship.
Streaming the Future
We also teach artists to harness new revenue streams through platforms like Kick and YouTube. Our “Stream University” equips creators with live-streaming tools that open global markets. Artists can broadcast, monetize, and share their vision while elevating Jacksonville as a creative leader.
Big Dreams: A 4.5-Acre Creative Campus
We’ve identified a 4.5-acre site for a permanent creative campus – complete with studios, classrooms, stages, and live/work residencies. This space would give Jacksonville’s artists room to thrive and transform underutilized land into an economic and cultural engine.
We are raising $250,000 through our GoFundMe campaign to make this dream a reality:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/bespokenfor
Join the Movement
It’s time to speak for something. By supporting Jacksonville’s creative class, we’re investing in our community’s resilience, innovation, and identity. Attend events, sponsor artists, and help us build this campus. Share our story. And most importantly—believe in the power of the arts to carry us forward.
Follow our journey. Support our mission. Help Jacksonville thrive through creativity.