Finding a place in history: Symbolic and social networks in creative careers and collective memory

Boundary less careers are pervasive, and yet we have little understanding of the boundaries imposed by categorization processes upon those engaged in boundaryless careers such as in creative industries and cultural fields. Categorization processes underlie symbolic and social boundaries and this study examines whether transgressing symbolic and social boundaries enhances the likelihood of soaring to eminence or sliding into relative obscurity. This study examined a relatively under-research area the effects of boundary crossing at specific career stages and the capacity to attain eminence a place in history. The study reveals the importance of symbolic networks and expanding symbolic boundaries though boundary objects such as buildings for attaining recognition and securing eminence in one's career. Copyright (C) 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.