Women and the creative industries: exploring the popular appeal

This article explores the appeal of the creative industries and considers women's progression within the sector. Taking the designer fashion and publishing sectors as examples, the article aims to provide insights into women's creative development; to consider the particular gender biases that appear to be embedded within the creative sector; and to discuss why women are not recognized for their creative achievements to the same degree as men.A review of the literature highlights a general paucity of empirically-based studies and statistical data pertaining to women in the creative sector. Drawing on the women's entrepreneurship literature, the article posits that women are well suited to creative work and that the creative industries may offer them considerable potential in terms of employment and new venture creation. The article finds, however, that the same gender-related barriers that exist within other industry sectors are just as prevalent, if not more so, within the creative sector. Furthermore, even in a seemingly highly ‘feminized’ creative sector such as designer fashion, (gay) men are still better paid, hold more senior positions and are more likely to be recognized for their achievements. The need for empirical research across the various sectors that the creative industries comprise is highlighted.