Transformation Through the Arts

“When a community is working towards sustainable revitalization, economic development is not limited to work in the for-profit sector; the not-for profit and public sectors including their creative, innovation, and artistic expressions/components play a vital role. The sense of place and essential partnerships that form in cultivation of a collective identity and the ability to work together are transformative forces when paired with developing a community’s unique assets, capacities, size and needs. A wholistic approach instead of a singular perspective is needed to achieve the full impact of the potential inherent in each community.”

Borwick, D., & Bacon, B. S. (2012). Building Communities, Not Audiences: The future of the arts in the United States. Winston-Salem: Arts Engaged.

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A Conversation with Chattanooga, TN Part 2

As our community moves towards an even brighter future we have the privilege of learning from others who have gone before us. In this conversation with community leaders from Chattanooga, TN we continue the process of learning how a community that invests in itself grows, not just in the arts, but in other ways as…

A Conversation with Chattanooga, TN Part 1

A conversation with Des Moines, IO

As our community moves towards an even brighter future we have the privilege of learning from others who have gone before us. In this conversation with community leaders from Des Moines, IO we continue in the process of learning how a community that invests in itself grows, not just in the arts, but in other…

A conversation with Bentonville, AR

As our community moves towards an even brighter future we have the privilege of learning from others who have gone before us. In this conversation with community leaders from Bentonville, AR we begin the process of learning how a community that invests in itself grows, not just in the arts, but in other ways as…

What is Transformation Through the Arts?

This community initiative develops the Wiregrass as an ATTRACTOR of current and potential residents, visitors, and businesses and as a DESTINATION for tourism through creative expansion and enhancements of the arts. After reviewing 22 months of community conversations, research, and analysis of the Wiregrass area (Phase 1 and 2), the Wiregrass Foundation board approved to…

View Phase 2 Report