Social and Spatial Structures of Innovation in the Irish Animation Industry

Abstract

This paper assesses the relevance of the knowledge base conceptualization and the relationship between the symbolic knowledge base and the spatiality of knowledge flow in the context of the animation industry in Ireland. The paper draws on findings from a study of four innovation case studies. In broad terms, the findings provide further support for the applicability of the knowledge base approach and the association of the animation industry with the symbolic knowledge base. However, in relation to the spatiality of knowledge flows, the findings contradict the theoretically deduced postulations. Nearly all of the knowledge sources are located overseas. In addition, the study finds little support for the role of local buzz in knowledge flow. The local animation community “buzzes globally” at international events.

Notes

The following paragraphs draw on Asheim et al. (2011), Asheim et al. (2007) and Gertler (2008).

This has been referred to as “temporary geographical proximity” (Torre & Rallet, 2005), but this term may provide more confusion than clarity. We prefer to interpret this simply as face-to-face contact between geographically distant partners.

This paper summarizes the findings of the case studies. For a detailed report of the case studies, see Van Egeraat et al. (2009).

An animatic or story reel is a full-length storyboard synchronized with text sound and characters.