In the U.S., the arts are more than creativity—they’re big business, driving 42% of the global art market in 2023 and fueling local economies nationwide. Art boosts tourism, creates jobs, and supports small businesses, from cafes to event services. For every dollar spent on the arts, there’s a ripple effect that goes beyond galleries and museums.

Take Finland, for example, where, according to the University of the Arts Helsinki, the government invested €1.2 billion into arts and culture in 2020, resulting in a substantial economic return of €13 billion. The cultural sector employs approximately 123,000 people in Finland, contributing significantly to the economy. Additionally, Statistics Finland reports that, in 2019, arts and culture contributed 3.4% to the nation’s GDP and accounted for 3.1% of employment, outshining sectors like agriculture and forestry. The truth is, the arts create jobs—not just for artists, but for technicians, marketers, caterers, and local businesses that benefit from the extra foot traffic.

But it’s not just about money. The arts foster well-being, reduce stress, and build connections. Schools, veterans’ programs, and public art projects give people creative outlets that make communities healthier and more vibrant.

Cutting arts funding? It’s not a savings; it’s a loss. Investing in the arts means investing in stronger, more dynamic communities.

Places that support the arts aren’t just cultural hubs—they’re economic engines. People travel to see art, to experience live performances, to join in the vibrancy of a town that values creativity. Think about Italy, where art and heritage attract millions of tourists every year. These visitors spend at hotels, eat at local restaurants, shop in nearby stores, all boosting the local economy. Cutting back on arts funding? It doesn’t save money—it limits potential earnings.

The Arts Give Us More Than We Realize

Art isn’t just about beautiful paintings or great performances; it’s about how it makes us feel and connect. Art gives people a space to think, to relax, to express themselves. Studies have shown that engaging with art actually lowers stress and boosts mood. And for young people, arts programs offer a valuable way to explore their identities and build confidence.

When arts programs disappear, especially in schools, we lose a key tool that helps people feel good about themselves and about each other. Without art classes, students miss out on learning creative problem-solving skills, which are valued in every career. Without community art projects, towns miss out on spaces where people can come together. The arts don’t just fill our walls or stages—they fill a need for connection and well-being.

Here's a simple truth: You need to spend money to make money! When we support the arts, we’re making an investment that pays off in stronger communities, a more vibrant economy, and a healthier, happier society. Yes, it requires funding—but cutting back only limits what’s possible. Investing in the arts keeps our communities interesting, welcoming, and connected, and it’s an investment that keeps coming back to us in the form of jobs, tourism, and the countless ways we benefit from creativity in our lives.

Supporting the arts isn’t a luxury; it’s a choice to invest in the kind of place we all want to live in.

ART Walkway News