The Arts Council of Winston-Salem and Forsyth Council is celebrating its 60th anniversary this week with a series of events that underscore just what a driving force the arts are, both in regard to entertainment and economic development.
That's a concept many cities are just grasping. But arts leaders in Winston-Salem, The City of the Arts, have long realized that the arts are about far more than admiring paintings on the wall. The arts are a way of life. Some leaders here anticipated that back in 1949, when they formed the first locally established arts council in the country. Now, there are more than 4,000 such councils.
But even in Winston-Salem, arts organizations often struggle for money. The aesthetic and dollar value of the arts still are underestimated.
The local anniversary events, which run through Sunday, should help change that. The events range from young artists discussing their works at Diggs Gallery to the Piedmont Craftsmen's Fair at Benton Convention Center. For a full schedule of events, go to intothearts.org.
A luncheon today could lead to more dialogue about the role of the arts in our lives. The speakers will include Joan Mondale, the wife of 1984 presidential candidate Walter Mondale and a proponent of highway beautification; and Gene Conti, the secretary of the N.C. Department of Transportation. There's a push here to secure government funding for creative designs of the bridges to be replaced when the improvement work on Business 40 finally starts in a few years.
The speakers will also include state Secretary of Commerce Keith Crisco and Secretary of Cultural Resources Linda Carlisle.
The connection between commerce and the arts can be seen throughout the city, including in the arts district, where galleries have been followed by restaurants and bars. Jobs have been created, the tax rolls have grown and the area has been revitalized. The overall quality of life has been enhanced, making Forsyth County more attractive to new businesses.
The arts council and scores of volunteers have helped many of these endeavors to thrive. As it celebrates its 60th anniversary, the council is poised to realize its dream of completing the renovation and expansion of the Sawtooth building into an exciting new downtown arts center.
The council, and the arts in general, are worthy of support throughout the year. Join the celebration.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement