Barbados Looks to Creative Economy

According to a recent guest editorial by Thom Cross, the creative sector in Barbados has shown that it has genuine potential for generating income and creating jobs, especially within the all-important youth segment of our population. Designers, singers, artists of all descriptions, new media people, writers, craftsmen abound in Barbados with talent and potential. Cross cites the late Professor Stan Reid, who estimated that in 1995, gross revenue for Barbados from entertainment and cultural industries exceeded Bds$25 million.

Cross says that a growing new niche in Barbados within the creative sector is the production service provider. Entrepreneurs like Norman Barrow of A&B Music Supplies, DB Productions and others, provide high quality production facilities from stages to props, sound and lights and special effects. These services are also exported. Other services within this growing industry are specialist accountants, lawyers, costume makers, recording studios and arrangers, publicity creators (including graphic artists) and an array of associated merchandise producers.

But, as Cross states, there are gaps that must be filled to take Barbados' creative sector to the next level. One major one is the human talent to make it happen--a point that Richard Florida reminds us to address in our creative sector plans and strategies.

Cross makes 3 recommendations on how to strengthen Barbados' creative sector:

1. In the context of the redevelopment of Bridgetown and in celebration of its anniversary, consideration should be given to the development of a Creative Industries Zone. This zone could provide space for artists, producers and craftspeople to develop. Create a place to make and a place to sell, with shared administrative and marketing services.

2. Establish within the Barbados Investment and Development Corporation/National Cultural Foundation a Creative Industries Development Unit to help creative people turn their talent into viable businesses. Marketing support, training and advice and perhaps some funding would be made available.

3. Enlightened private sector involvement is critical; not merely as sponsors but as active entrepreneurs, investors and partners.

Thom Cross is a director of Bowie Cross Advertising Inc and a dramatist.

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