Light Dark Light CIC has been commissioned by Creative Scotland to carry out an initial piece of research examining how individuals and businesses working across Scotland’s arts, screen and creative industries are engaging with digital platforms and the rapidly evolving ‘creator economy’.

As part of this work, we’re hosting two open and informal online sessions to share our research approach, discuss the various ways to participate, introduce emerging patterns, and invite insights, feedback and lived experience.

So, What Exactly Do We Mean by the Creator Economy?

We’re talking about individuals and businesses using digital platforms - like Patreon, Substack, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and others - to share their work, connect with audiences, collaborate, and generate income. This includes approaches such as subscriptions, memberships, content monetisation, donations, brand partnerships, crowd-based income, and the sale of physical or digital products. At the heart of it is the relationship between creators and their audiences, and the different ways that can be supported.

Shape How the Research Develops

This is an opportunity to help shape the direction of the work, highlight what matters most, and contribute to a clearer understanding of how individuals and businesses are using - or choosing not to use - digital platforms. We’ll share our findings so far and invite discussion about opportunities, barriers, realities, and support needs. We’re particularly interested in where you see potential, where you see challenges, and how we can ensure that as many people as possible can meaningfully participate as the research develops.

Why Join the Conversation?

Alongside sharing your own experiences, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with others across the arts, screen, and creative industries, explore how people are using digital platforms in their work, and consider new ideas and possibilities. Those confident in this space can spotlight aspects of their practice, while those less certain can ask questions, gain insights, or share what support or knowledge would help them feel better equipped. You’ll also hear more about how Creative Scotland intends to use the research.

Led by Jessica Fox (Co-founder, Light Dark Light)

With contributions from
Caitlin Meek-O’Connor (Digital Content Specialist)
Ashley Smith-Hammond (Creative Industries Officer, Creative Scotland)

Jessica Fox

Jessica is the Co-founder of Light Dark Light CIC. She's a director, author, and digital content specialist with more than 20 years’ experience at the intersection of storytelling and creative innovation. She has worked across film, television, and theatre, gaining recognition with her memoir Three Things You Need to Know About Rockets and her award-winning feature film Stella. As Resident Storyteller at NASA, she developed content bridging science and human engagement and now co-hosts a podcast on leadership and innovation with former NASA Chief Knowledge Officer Ed Hoffman. Jessica co-founded The Open Book, a literary residency and bookshop in Wigtown that became Airbnb’s most wish-listed property globally. She has designed and delivered extensive platform-driven content strategies, including programmes with Oscar-winning producer Jason Lust (The Matrix). She continues to consult internationally on story-driven digital strategy, helping organisations and creatives develop new approaches to their work.

Caitlin Meek-O’Connor

Caitlin is Co-founder of Ferry Media, a strategic consultancy helping artists and entertainment companies grow the community and commercial potential of their content across digital channels. Based in Scotland, she builds revenue-focused strategies for YouTube, TikTok, and other social platforms. Previously a Director at Night Train Digital and Director of Programming & Acquisitions at Little Dot Studios, Caitlin led digital strategy, developed new business models, and shaped the programming vision for 50+ channels, building on earlier experience at DRG and Beyond Distribution.

Ashley Smith-Hammond

Ashley is an Officer within the Creative Industries Directorate at Creative Scotland, specialising in digital innovation in creative, business and audience engagement practice. An American expat based in Glasgow, she came to Scotland in 2003 and undertook a PhD focused on post-devolution Scottish cultural policy, identity and professional dance practice. Before Creative Scotland Ashley worked as a digital engagement specialist for Culture Republic, Scotland’s audience engagement agency. As part of that role, she project managed Ambition Scotland, which was a digital development programme for Scotland’s arts and cultural sector.

This event is free to attend.