The role of culture as a stimulator of transforming industrial cities into creative ones. Case study of Lodz, Poland

Abstract

Paper presents the impact of culture for urban development in different stages, referring to the process of transforming urban economies from industrial to "creative". Case study presents contemporary changes in third largest Polish post-industrial city – Lodz. The role of culture and people's creativity was compared here with the results of the survey made among inhabitants of Lodz. Research revealed that despite many economic struggles, city is able to transform cultural offer to today's needs, referring to its territorial specificity. However, also some problems and challenges were identified, to which cultural policy must respond.