I was reading the Indianapolis Business Journal's 2008 stories in review issue today and was reminded about the number of business and economic blunders of this past year. One particular local blunder was summarized in a short article on page 33 - the reduction by the Arts Council of Indianapolis in its funding of local art initiatives from $1.5M to $1M. I understand the need for budget constraints, but this is a nearsighted approach by our city.Creative communities thrive on a balance of entreprenuership, funding, innovation and culture. Most cities do a decent job of promoting the first three elements but a poor job on the final. The arts bring life and excitment to a city that businesses alone cannot. Creative talent are attracted to creative enviornments. The arts create a collective beauty and expression of a community; i.e., they create culture. Cultural development is a driving force for long term economic development.
My entrepreneurial law firm, Alerding Castor, is dedicated to supporting local artists and art initiatives. Several local artists' works are featured in our office, and we sponsor an art opening at the Harrison Center for the Arts every winter (details coming soon). Please consider joining us in supporting local artists.
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Also see:
Creating a Creative Community
Intersection of Business&Culture
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