A Word from our Board Chair

Each year, we celebrate the incredible contributions that area businesses and individuals make to local arts organizations during our Community Arts Partnership awards. But I’d like to take a moment here to reflect on the contributions the arts make to our community, because I believe the arts are a vital part of the city of Columbus, particularly during these challenging economic times.

Many people appreciate the arts for their intrinsic benefits – the beauty, inspiration, imagination and intellect they provide. But the value of the arts goes beyond the intrinsic: 


• The arts help with workforce issues by developing the kind of workers business leaders need to compete in the 21st century global economy. In tough economic times, innovation and creativity are more important than ever, and a strong arts sector helps attract and retain skilled, educated workers. As cities compete for new businesses in a sagging economy, it is essential for Columbus to have the creative workforce needed to attract those businesses and keep them here.
• The arts are important to the tourism industry. In tough times, people take more "staycations" to avoid airfares and hotel fees. A strong arts sector encourages people to stay local and attend cultural events close to home, boosting the local economy. Additionally, spending by cultural tourists who do come in from out of town pours dollars into the Columbus economy. According the Travel Industry Association, cultural tourists spend more, are more likely to use a hotel, travel longer, and are more likely to spend over $1,000 than the average traveler. 
• The arts are important to our students’ education. Students who have arts integrated into their school curriculum have better grade point averages, score better on standardized tests in reading and math and have lower dropout rates.
• And the value of the arts for helping underserved youth is enormous. Studies by the U.S. Department of Justice researchers demonstrate increased pro-social behavior among youth involved with arts programs such as GCAC’s Art in the House and our TRANSIT ARTS partner. Research shows a measurable impact on youth at risk in deterring delinquent behavior and truancy problems, improving communications skills, increasing ability to complete tasks from start to finish and fewer new court referrals. 

As Board chair for GCAC, I am honored to advocate for a cause that means as much to me personally as it does to my community. I thank my fellow board members and the GCAC staff for the work they do every day to support the arts in Columbus. And I thank you – our donors, supporters, ticket buyers and advocates – for recognizing that the arts are an important part of our city, especially now.

Sincerely,
DeeDee Glimcher
Chair, GCAC Board of Trustees