Understand a bit more about what it means to be a UNESCO Creative City and how Perth’s UNESCO City of Craft and Folk Arts designation is used.
What is a UNESCO Creative City?
About the UNESCO Creative Cities Network
The UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) was created in 2004 to promote cooperation with and among cities that have identified creativity as a strategic factor for sustainable urban development. The network of almost 350 cities (66 Cities of Craft as of July 2025) work together towards a common objective: embedding creativity and cultural industries firmly within their development plans at the local level, and cooperating actively at the international level. There are seven subnetworks of the UCCN: Craft and Folk Arts, Design, Film, Media Arts, Gastronomy, Literature, and Music.
There are numerous benefits to being designated as a UNESCO Creative City. Here are two main ones:
The Seal of Approval
Many cities apply to be UNESCO Creative Cities each time UNESCO opens applications. Each of these applications needs to be peer reviewed by other cities within the subnetwork it is applying to, as well as by experts within the field, and UNESCO itself. You need a strong application and proof that as a city you commit to using creativity as a factor for sustainable urban development, so to be awarded a designation is a huge seal of approval from experts in the field around the world.
The UCCN
It is a massive privilege to be part of a global network of Creative Cities both in the same field and beyond. Being a network member gives a city the ability to platform local activity and creative practitioners on a global stage, to take part in global initiatives and projects, to take global learning and apply it at a local level, and to collaboratively problem solve with experts from around the world.
What is the mission of this designation in this region?
To embed craft and folk art into decision-making, sustainable development, communities, and culture at all levels.
How will we do this?
We have three main priorities:
– Develop partnerships within the UNESCO Creative Cities Network
– Highlight and create opportunities for local makers in Perth and Kinross
– Strengthen networks and connections between creative communities in our area
The programming of Perth’s UNESCO designation also works towards numerous local cultural and place-making strategies, as well as national international plans.
Why is Perth a city of Craft and Folk Art?
Craft is an integral part of this area’s history. Medieval Perth was a centre of craft production and trade. By the early 1500s, Perth was known as a ‘craftis toun’. This reputation has been maintained throughout the centuries, and today there is still a thriving and reputable Craft and Folk Art sector.
The activity of the designation is focused on putting Craft and Folk art at the heart of the city of Perth, our city area of Perth and Kinross, but also to appeal to national and international visitors, welcoming people from around the world to our beautiful landscape. We want to provide authentic experiences which will help understanding of the importance of Craft and Folk Art to wellbeing, the economy and make it a key part of our city plan.