Creativity comes from the combination of ability and environment. It relates to the capacity of people to think with imagination and challenge the existing. This aptitude is characterised by unpredictability，divergent thinking combining cognitive elements with the expression of human senses and emotions. In combination，both context and place are important elements in the emergence of creativity. As a result cities provide an ideal environment conducive to the expression of creative abilities. They provide the “container” of creative expression.

Without creativity there would not be music，poetry，paintings，literature and all activities associated with art，culture and creative industries（CCIs）. Creativity contributes to the making of culture. In turn culture，art and creative talents are a powerful source of creativity and innovation. Culture-based creativity is creativity that finds its source in art，culture and creative industries. This form of creativity is essential in modern economies driven by differentiation，meanings，ethical or aesthetic values beyond products’ functionalities.

The Smart Guide（the Guide）considers new ways to look at art and culture to explore the contribution of the latter to economic and social changes. It expresses the idea that art and culture are essential resources for innovation. These resources can be mined everywhere. The more they are localised，the more valuable they are as the expression of（much in demand）singularities. Cities are the ideal places to foster creative interactions and enable the experimentation that drives innovation. The guide is clearly a practical manifesto for a wider usage of art，culture and creative industries in economic and social development.