Comments on: Support for downtowns, disinvestment in arts http://www.thecenterformichigan.net/blog/473/ Fri, 29 Aug 2008 22:45:17 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.5.1 By: Craig Anthony Thomas http://www.thecenterformichigan.net/blog/473/#comment-3485 Craig Anthony Thomas Fri, 14 Dec 2007 22:28:11 +0000 http://www.thecenterformichigan.net/blog/473/#comment-3485 A new paradigm appears to have emerged that's worthy of attention by regional arts organizations. Area residents are looking for walkable urban communities. Many U.S. urban areas appear to be attracting not only the young, but also the elderly and so-called empty-nesters who are bored with suburbia. Note, for instance, the increased number of downtown residents walking their dogs on downtown sidwalks. Leaders of arts organizations need to take advantage of this shift with more programs for this increasingly diverse population. Some arts and entertainment groups have made the transition, but more are needed. Build the arts programs and activities, then watch downtowns tranform into vital civic centers. Mark my word. Cheers, Craig A new paradigm appears to have emerged that's worthy of attention by regional arts organizations. Area residents are looking for walkable urban communities. Many U.S. urban areas appear to be attracting not only the young, but also the elderly and so-called empty-nesters who are bored with suburbia. Note, for instance, the increased number of downtown residents walking their dogs on downtown sidwalks.

Leaders of arts organizations need to take advantage of this shift with more programs for this increasingly diverse population. Some arts and entertainment groups have made the transition, but more are needed.

Build the arts programs and activities, then watch downtowns tranform into vital civic centers.

Mark my word.

Cheers,
Craig

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