ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we present an analytical framework to examine professionalization in the creative sector. It incorporates sociological and economic perspectives on professionalization, experiences of working artists, institutionalization processes, and a model of creative and cultural industries to broaden the range of cultural occupations. We also identify key forces shaping professionalization, including cultural policy, globalization, technological change, and demographic shifts. By reviewing both academic and non-academic “gray” literature, we offer a multifaceted understanding of the professionalization dynamics in the creative and cultural industries, highlighting the experiences and careers of cultural workers.
