Title
Economic Power of the Arts
Description
This report provides the Economic Development and Housing Subcommittee with an update on the economic impact of public art and the arts sector in Phoenix.
THIS ITEM IS FOR INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION
Report
Summary
The arts inspire and bring joy to residents. They beautify public spaces, strengthen community pride and identity, and bolster the economy. The City of Phoenix has supported the arts and culture sector through organizational support with grants and bond programs and supported individual artists through its public art program. In addition, the private sector has bolstered its investment in the arts community by commissioning murals, art in private development, and corporate philanthropy. Regions with thriving cultural ecosystems consistently outperform peer markets in attracting and retaining tech talent and companies.
Arts and Economic Prosperity
Americans for the Arts conducted the sixth Arts & Economic Prosperity Study (AEP6) to document the economic and social benefits of the nation's nonprofit arts and culture industry. The City of Phoenix has participated in all studies, and over 100 arts and culture nonprofits were included in AEP6. The study shows that Phoenix’s nonprofit arts and culture industry generated $449.9 million in economic activity in 2022.
City of Phoenix Public Art
Since its establishment in 1986, the City of Phoenix Public Art Program, managed by the Office of Arts and Culture, has been a national model for involving artists in designing and building a better city. By fostering collaborations among artists, engineers, architects, landscape architects and other urban designers and thinkers, the program enhances the look, feel and function of a wide range of public buildings, spaces and infrastructure. Investments in public art not only support artists but also create jobs in other sectors and trades. The Office of Arts and Culture’s current five-year Public Art Plan includes a $25 million investment by the City of Phoenix.
The Most Decorated Region
The Greater Phoenix Economic Council has launched a public art initiative to advance arts visibility and funding. It has set out to become “The Most Decorated Region,” measured by the collection of art in public places compared to regions worldwide. Reaching this acclaim will drive global awareness and create future opportunities for the market’s vast creative community that encourages innovation among residents and businesses. Public art isn’t just about beautification; it’s an economic driver. This initiative will enhance regional competitiveness on a global scale, highlight the creative economy that fuels innovation, and strengthen cultural identity.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Managers David Mathews and John Chan, and the Office of Arts and Culture and the Community and Economic Development Department.