Effects of Dislocation of the Dominant Player on Functioning Within a Fine Arts Cluster

Author: Deidre Giblin

Published: Saturday 5th Oct 2002

Researcher: PhD Candidate Deidre Giblin


This thesis studies the ways an industry cluster functions when a key player (one that has in the past dominated the cluster) is forced temporarily to assume less prominent roles. Closure of the National Gallery of Victoria for renovation, and as a consequence scaled down operations for a period of three-four years (1999- 2003) before reopening, provides a unique opportunity to study the effects of dislocation of the dominant player have on the way the fine arts cluster in Victoria operates. This investigation examines innovative activity and interrelations between members of the cluster in three phases of transition; that is, before, during, and after disruption of the National Gallery's core activities.


The primary objective of this research is to understand the interactions and networks between cluster members and investigate the effect of disruption of the key player's core activities on: Relationships within the fine art cluster and externally, The consequences to innovative activity and dynamism within the cluster and externally. Growth and competitive dynamics of the fine arts cluster in terms of alliance capitalism and market capitalism models.

The core questions are:

1. Does dislocation and subsequent re-entry of a key player impact on the way the cluster operates and change inter-relationships between members?
2. If so, how, and in what way does dislocation of a key player effect collaboration, competitive advantage and innovative activity within the cluster and externally.