Creative City and Cultural Identity: Linking Urban Art to Sustainable Development

Abstract

Creative cities, as new platforms for cultural, social, and economic development, have received increasing attention from urban policymakers and researchers in recent decades. By emphasizing innovation, social participation, and the use of artistic capacities, these cities play a vital role in strengthening cultural identity and enhancing citizens’ quality of life. This research, using a qualitative method and content analysis of urban studies, examines the impact of urban art on cultural identity and sustainable development. The findings indicate that the presence of artistic works in public spaces not only enhances environmental aesthetics and increases social interactions but also fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens social capital. Furthermore, the integration of urban art with sustainable development policies has transformed art into a tool for addressing environmental issues, boosting cultural tourism, and fostering a dynamic urban economy. The article emphasizes that contemporary urban management must adopt a creative and artistic approach to urban design and organization in order to balance modern needs, cultural heritage preservation, and the realization of sustainable cities.