Why

Participation in the expression and appreciation of the arts is a life giving force for individuals and the community. Anyone who has sung a song, held a paintbrush, beheld a dance, examined a sculpture, or just listened to music knows the power of the arts to transform and uphold life. Why do we do it? We want art in our lives and in the life of our community because it is essential to our well being.

Economic Impact

Presentation and participation in the arts is good business for everyone. The non-profit arts sector brings thousands of dollars into our community and our state each year in ticket sales, rental of facilities, payments to artists, food and hospitality industries, and jobs in all of these areas. Tourism is enhanced and economic development is improved as the arts-rich community becomes a better place to live and work.

Education

The arts are critical to education and learning. “During the past quarter century, literally thousands of school and community based programs have demonstrated beyond question that the arts can not only bring coherence to our fragmented academic world, but through the arts, students’ performance in other academic disciplines can be enhanced as well.” Ernest L. Boyer, president of the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.

Statistics

coming soon