The increasing inter-city competition, due to the effects of globalization, de-industrialization, the contraction of public funding and the emergence of new economies, has put pressure on city governments which are in search of new strategies to boost local development. Environmental, economic and social urgencies, together with sustainability requirements, are moving to the forefront of planning policy and programs of cities and communities of all sizes.
The inclusion of "culture" in the sustainability dialogue is emerging, as isevident from the variety of tools and programs for city development and growth,ranging from world-wide mega-events (sport events, flagships projects, Expos), international cultural development programs (Cultural Capitals; recovery programs) to urban marketing promotion at a local level.
This course aims to provide a critical introduction to the role of culture as a driver of innovation and urban change, enhancing social, economic, and environmental sustainability in cities and specifically considering how design, planning and urban marketing connected with the topics of events (moving hugepublic-private investments), leisure and recreation in the urban setting can be effective. A number of case studies (especially related to Venice and the Veneto) will be used to illustrate key developments (large-scale sport and cultural events, repackaging of cultural heritage, display of public art and the like) and to highlight whether and how sustainability issues have been tackled. Field trips related to the course shall be organized.