Marketing of Coastal Barrier Spits as Liminal Spaces of Creativity

Coastal barrier spits, including the Curonian Spit, are evolving from mass tourism destinations into fluid creative liminal spaces where art and wellness intersect. This transformation is driven by a shift towards niche tourist 'tribes' seeking unique experiences, rather than traditional mass tourism. The study critically examines this transition through the lens of post-structuralist philosophy, focusing on two key aspects: the 'Grand Story' of the Curonian Spit and its Nida Art Colony as an artist-tourist bubble. By analyzing these landscapes—such as Nida (Lithuania), Ahrenshoop (Germany), Hiddensee (Germany), Skagen (Denmark), and Provincetown (USA)—the research highlights how liminality serves as a conceptual framework for understanding their creative potential. The findings suggest that barrier spits are becoming multifaceted destinations, blending artistic inspiration with wellness tourism.

Povilanskas, R., & Armaitienė, A. (2014). Marketing of Coastal Barrier Spits as Liminal Spaces of Creativity. Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences, 148, 397–403. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2014.07.058