Author: American Planning Association

Publication Year:

Media Type: Report

Summary:

This is one of several briefing papers created by the APA's Planning and Community Health Research Center on how planners use arts and culture to achieve economic, social, environmental, and community goals.

Abstract:

Terms such as "creative economy," "creative class," and "cultural economy" are becoming more common among urban planners, arts administrators, economic developers, and business and municipal leaders.  These terms reference a variety of types of jobs, people, and industries, including the sectors of visual, performing, and literary arts, as well as applied fields like architecture, graphic design, and marketing. Whatever label is used, this use of terminology linking culture and the economy indicates recognition of the connections among the fields of planning, economic development, and arts and culture.

The activities of the arts and culture sector and local economic vitality are connected in many ways. Arts, culture, and creativity can

• improve a community's competitive edge
• create a foundation for defining a sense of place
• attract new and visiting populations
• integrate the visions of community and business leaders
• contribute to the development of a skilled workforce

Arts & Intersections:

Categories: Economic Impact, Cultural Planning, Community Development