Creating Distinct Place Identity Is Tied to Consumerism

“Capitalism has gotten really good at picking up on these trends and using bohemias as a source of R&;D to develop new products and sponsor new trends,” says Anasi. “Ad agencies send their reps there to see what the kids are up to.” Christopher Mele, author of “Selling the Lower East Side,” says that bohemias aren’t fortified now as they once were. “Bohemian neighborhoods were once considered stubborn and resistant to gentrification, but that’s long gone,” he says. “Just as we are likely to have quick and easy access to niche or specialized markets for music, art, design and other cultural products, we have access to urban neighborhoods with distinct place identities.”