Why Support The Arts?
Arts and culture are not extras—they’re essential. A growing body of research shows that investing in the arts leads to stronger, healthier, more prosperous communities.
The arts:
Enhance quality of life: Access to the arts creates opportunities for joy, reflection, learning, and creative expression.
Promote cultural diversity: The arts provide a platform to welcome and reflect the diversity of our community, helping residents appreciate different cultures and perspectives.
Attract and retain talent: A vibrant arts scene is a key factor in where people—especially young professionals—choose to live.
Build community: Arts events and performances bring people together, fostering connection, social cohesion, and a more welcoming city.
Preserve cultural heritage: Artistic expression helps keep our community’s stories, traditions, and values alive for future generations.
Support children’s growth and success: Students engaged in arts learning tend to have higher GPAs, test scores, and college-going rates, and lower dropout rates—across all socioeconomic levels.
Improve public spaces and safety: Installations, performances, and events draw people into public spaces, increase foot traffic, and create “eyes on the street,” making places feel safer and more welcoming.
Boost mental health and well-being: Participation in the arts is linked to reduced stress, improved mood, and greater overall life satisfaction.
Boost the local economy: Arts and culture support jobs, drive tourism, and increase spending at local businesses, strengthening Boulder’s tax base and economic resilience.