Arts & Culture Needed For Communities to Thrive

Part of CIEL's Mike Stolte & Anna Planedin's address to the Nelson & District Arts Council (NDAC) Annual General Meeting July 8, 2009.

In a vital community there are galleries, concerts, and celebrations. There are people working in cultural and creative occupations.

It is becoming widely recognized that a rich cultural life attracts talented, educated new residents with young families. A diverse arts scene is part of the quality of life they are seeking for themselves and their children. Festivals and cultural events are linked to a greater sense of community.

How well does your community do in these key areas? The following are some of the key indicators CIEL's research revealed are important in thriving communities.

• We celebrate the arts and support local artists.
• The community has adequate displays of public art: sculptures, murals, etc.
• There are numerous opportunities to see local live theatre, and live music in a variety of genres: (classical, folk, hip-hop, choral, jazz, etc.)
• There is a pleasant and inviting venue for theatre and other special events that is open to people of all ages.
• There are numerous opportunities, in and out of school, for children to learn the arts (dance classes, etc.)
• There are adequate opportunities and venues for local artists and craftspeople to display and sell their work.
• We have at least one public festival that generates a feeling of magic and excitement.
• We are aware of and celebrate local history.
• The library is valued by the community.
• The community has a distinct culture and heritage that is appreciated by the community.
• The community has a distinct culture and heritage that is appreciated by visitors to the community.

Contact CIEL for more info on these & other of the Community Vitality Initiative [CVI] indicators. The 95 CVI indicators were developed by CIEL over two years utilizing an extensive literature review, team experience in the field and guidance from a national steering committee.

Photo: CIEL's Communication Co-ordinator Anna Planedin