New York – Yancey Strickler, co-founder of the crowdfunding platform Kickstarter, recently asserted that creative individuals are inherently leaders and entrepreneurs, a perspective often overlooked in traditional economic discourse. In a tweet, Strickler stated, > "Creative people are already leaders and entrepreneurs, we just don’t think of them that way." This statement underscores his ongoing advocacy for redefining the role and recognition of creative professionals within the global economy.
Strickler, a prominent author and entrepreneur, has consistently championed new frameworks to support artists and creators. His work, including the development of Metalabel and the concept of Artist Corporations (A-Corps), aims to provide structures that better align with how creative work is conducted, moving beyond the limitations of the "gig economy." He argues that while 67 million people globally identify as creators, many remain stuck as "1099 gig workers," excluded from the full benefits of capitalism.
The underlying challenge, according to Strickler, is the absence of appropriate organizational and financial models that acknowledge the entrepreneurial nature of creative endeavors. Projects like Artist Corporations are envisioned as new legal entities designed to enable creative individuals to participate fully in capitalism without sacrificing their artistic integrity, fostering collective wealth creation. This contrasts with a "lonely economy logic" that has often isolated creators.
Strickler's vision extends to what he terms the "Creative Century," a period where creative people gain greater power and resources through self-controlled structures. His initiatives, including The Creative Independent, serve as resources offering practical guidance and fostering cooperation among artists. This approach seeks to build a more equitable and sustainable ecosystem for creative work, shifting the focus from individual competition to collective strength and shared ownership.
The redefinition of creative professionals as entrepreneurs has significant implications for policy, funding, and investment in the arts and creative industries. By establishing new legal and economic foundations, Strickler believes that creative work can be better protected, valued, and leveraged for broader societal benefit, ultimately enriching the economy beyond purely utilitarian measures.