Rural communities nationwide have begun promoting art-centered residencies and are reaping the economic and cultural benefits. These residencies offer free lodging for practicing creatives in exchange for some sort of artistic contribution. Some communities have asked for an original art piece donation while others have asked artists to hold showcases, workshops or private lessons. The exchange is a win-win: residents can seek inspiration during their visits while enjoying the town’s scenery and communities are able to build their local art scenes and draw in tourism dollars. The practice has been a widespread hit and art-lovers are flocking to partake.

Travelers from outside communities naturally patronize local establishments during their stays. Restaurants, hotels, local shops and small businesses can benefit from the influx of customers brought in by artistic attractions. Communities also noted lodging tax as being a considerable perk of hosting art residencies.

The residencies have proven to draw in significant revenue from the artists themselves in addition to tourism dollars. Mitchell Oliver, executive director of Elsewhere Studios in Paonia, Colorado, told Daily Yonder that approximately 98 percent of their residents’ spending is done locally during their stay. In some cases, residents occasionally make the decision to move to the community permanently to contribute to the local arts and economy long-term.

Highlighting artistry has equally inspired community members to invest and engage in local arts. Painters, poets, writers, musicians, photographers and other artists can all bring new perspectives to rural towns.

To read the full story, go here: https://dailyyonder.com/arts-based-residencies-influence-rural-communities-both-culturally-and-economically/2022/05/10/