Local Authorities, Artists and Intermediaries Working in Synergy Towards Joint Goals: Capacities Needed for Purposeful Collaboration Within the CCI4Change Framework

This research focuses on establishing purposeful collaboration between local authorities, artists, and intermediaries working in synergy. Drawing on insights from the co-creation of the emerging CCI4Change collaboration model and five case studies, the study advocates for a systematic approach to local authority-driven partnerships with artists to achieve enhanced sustainability. The research examines the key factors required to foster collaboration, addressing the key capacities of each actor, local authorities, artists, and intermediaries, while also identifying the prerequisites and obstacles for a purposeful and successful collaboration. The study underscores the importance of motivation on the part of local authority, which must possess the capacity to contextualise the novel collaboration in a meaningful and strategic way. Artists, in turn, need strong professional artistic skills and the motivation to work in a goal-oriented way. The intermediary’s expertise within the CCI (Culture and Creative Industries) community is critical in fostering dialogue and trust between the two parties. The study employs a qualitative approach with a limited number of case studies. While the findings provide valuable insights and offer valid considerations for fostering purposeful cross-sectorial collaboration, they also suggest transferability to similar initiatives. This knowledge supports the application of the CCI4Change collaboration model, as well as other similar models, aimed at facilitating the systemic implementation of novel, local authority driven creative collaborations to foster community sustainability and innovation.