Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1391354
Arts and culture are important to a community. They bring people together and help us understand one another by promoting dialogue and collaboration. Not only that, the arts also are a significant economic driver, having an $88 million impact in Macon-Bibb County. Recognizing the potential of arts and culture to drive community connection and economic growth, the 2020 Macon Cultural Plan aims to increase arts access and engagement right here in our community. The plan was funded by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and led by a community partnership including Bibb County School District, the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce, Macon Arts Alliance, Macon-Bibb County, Mercer University, the Museum of Arts and Sciences and Visit Macon. In addition, more than 50 community stakeholders participated in the Steering Committee, and 1,200 residents participated directly in forming the plan's focus on economic prosperity, equity and inclusion. The 2020 Macon Cultural Plan provides a five-year blueprint to guide public and private investments and broad initiatives needed to strengthen quality of life, stimulate creative industries and expand cultural tourism. "Across the country, for decades, communities have seen decreases in public funding for arts and culture, despite the many benefits that they bring. A community-wide planning process maps out the path forward and lays the groundwork for success by incorporating different perspectives into a shared vision." - Priya Sircar, director of arts at Knight Foundation. Image: Big Hair Productions