Looking At The Bilbao Effect

The concept of using cultural facilities to spur economic development was pioneering by this Spanish rust belt city 10 years ago. Today, many cities want to follow in its footsteps.

1 minute read

October 21, 2007, 7:00 AM PDT

By Christian Madera @http://www.twitter.com/cpmadera


"Can it be that the Bilbao Guggenheim has been with us for only ten years?

It feels more like a lifetime.

A quick "Google" search reveals a partial explanation in the sheer presence of this museum in the communications environment.

The phrase "Bilbao Effect" shows up 12,300 times on the internet."

"For urban planners, politicians, museum directors and trustees, it means the transformation of a city by a new museum or cultural facility into a vibrant and attractive place for residents, visitors and inward investment."

Friday, October 19, 2007 in The Art Newspaper

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