More than $16 million are spent annually on the arts in Central Oregon. This figure represents the results of a recent member survey of more than 30 creative organizations in the Arts & Culture Alliance (ACA).
Additionally, more than a million arts and culture experiences were generated by these organizations, ranging from participating in an art class or workshop, attending a performance, lecture, or exhibition or actively engaged in the region’s creative economy.
Members report through the survey that they employ more than 160 full time-equivalent employees (not including thousands of volunteer hours and contract services). However, these results only represent a small fraction of the arts and culture organizations in Central Oregon.
Formed in May 2010, the Arts and Culture Alliance realizes the impact the arts have on Central Oregon and the economy. The ACA understands the need for collaboration and networking; their shared purpose in working together to promote the arts and supporting each other establishes a collective voice.
Central Oregon’s creative economy has an incredible impact on the health of the region; in addition to the jobs and influx of dollars spent in our cities, creative opportunities create livable communities and attract visitors and residents who want a well-rounded lifestyle: recreation and craft beers go hand in hand with live music and outdoor festivals.
The economic impact of the creative arts in Central Oregon is growing, and ACA is dedicated to work to enhance the visibility of the region’s cultural assets.
Current members include 2nd Street Theater; Art in Public Places; Art in the High Desert; Arts, Beautification & Culture Commission, Arts Central, Atelier 6000, Bella Acappella Harmony, Bend Chamber of Commerce, Bend Dance Project, BendFilm, Caldera, Cascade Arts & Entertainment, Cascade Chorale, Cascades Theatrical Co., Central Oregon Mastersingers, Central Oregon Symphony Association, COCC Barber Library Rotunda Gallery, Des Chutes Historical Museum, Deschutes Public Library, High Desert Chamber Music, High Desert Journal, Les Schwab Amphitheater, Lubbesmeyer Studio, Mockingbird Gallery, Redmond Community Concert Association, Sisters Folk Festival, Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show, Terpsichorean Dance Studio, The Museum at Warm Springs, The Nature of Words and the Tower Theatre Foundation.
Membership is open to creative arts practitioners, non-profits, businesses, artists, groups and organizations that focus on the arts.
Please visit www.artsandculstureco.org, www.facebook.com/ArtsCultureAlliance, or contact Michelle Solley for more information: michelledsolley@gmail.com.
