abundant living
THE RETURN ON CULTURAL INVESTMENT IS WITHIN REACH
When combined with a thrilling vision for the future, a mindset of abundance unlocks great potential. This opportunity is an invitation to us all. Sustainable and diverse resources are needed to support the arts ecosystem in Marshalltown: K-12 arts education, new programming for existing or adaptive venues, and a healthy entrance of new roles and perspectives in the shared work support future growth.
- Percent for Creative Placemaking is a special type of initiative, often passed through a city ordinance, where a certain percentage of the budget for large public or private projects is allocated to fund creative projects in the community. It is an important tool to ensure a community develops with distinction and enhanced livability. Funding mechanisms must be in place in order to maintain pride-building activities for residents.
- Arts-focused tax increment financing is a proven tool for ensuring the arts are woven seamlessly into new development in Marshalltown.
- Hotel/motel taxes are a popular and widespread means of funding arts and cultural programming in municipalities across the country. Marshalltown could dedicate a portion of the transient guest tax to arts and culture, on the basis that the cultural attractions enhance visitors’ experience, improve neighborhoods, and contribute to the local economy.
- Investment in the arts scene from Marshalltown’s employers pays dividends in workforce recruitment and retention.
- Artists and culture venues can get creative in tapping new revenue streams by utilizing existing spaces and expertise to offer unique experiences to residents and visitors.
- Investing in diverse creative minds to not just participate but to lead local organizations is considered a best practice and a more effective way to gain the trust and engagement of all community members.
- Programmatic collaborations, including the following initiatives, continue to be key to extending the reach of cultural impact:
- Visiting artist/artist-in-residency programs supported by colleges and universities, government, and nonprofit organizations.
- Artist relocation programs that incentivize professional creatives to move to Marshalltown.
- Nonprofit gallery space that is inviting and accessible to residents who may not visit a traditional museum.
- Unconventional galleries in commercial spaces that offer a unique backdrop for rotating exhibits and artists with work to sell.
