A Longitudinal Study on the Causes of Artist Outflow and Network Characteristics in Market Revitalization Projects Connecting Culture and Art: Focusing on the Gwangju Daein ArtMarket in Korea

Abstract

The Gwangju Daein Art Market, once declared as a declined market, was regarded as a success after an inflow of artists. However, the number of resident artists decreased from 100 at the end of 2015 to 39, to 9 in 2018, and to 6 in 2021. The project site showed signs of decline toward the completion of the project, leading to a Longitudinal study on the project’s sustainability. The purpose of this study is to investigate the causes of outflow of artists and the network characteristics of the remaining artists from a sustainability perspective and thereby draw policy implications. As an analysis method, in-depth interviews and surveys were conducted. After that, we checked the remaining artists in 2018 and 2021 and identified the network characteristics. Based on the interview results, the causes of outflow were classified into programmatic, physical, and other factors. The results of a comparison showed that the levels of understanding, satisfaction, and frequency of exchange decreased. The study also provides policy implications. First, a sustainable, long-term program for the artists must involve the improvement of physical space. Second, participation in the market should be encouraged by working with artists on program composition or business progress. Third, programs for supporting exchange among artists should be further strengthened.