Cultural Policy and Local Arts Agencies: At the Nexus of Cultural, Economic, and Community Development

Tuesday, October 20, 10:00am – 11:30am

Organized by Kerry Adams Hapner, Director of Cultural Affairs, Deputy Director of Economic Development, City of San Jose; and Randy Engstrom, Director, Seattle Office of Arts & Culture.

Presented by Kerry Adams Hapner, Director of Cultural Affairs, Deputy Director of Economic Development, City of San Jose Office of Cultural Affairs; Roberto Bedoya, Director of Civic Engagement, Tuscon Pima Arts Council; and Randy Engstrom, Director, Seattle Office of Arts & Culture.

US urban centers are seeing a number of interesting trends, placing the network of local arts agencies (LAAs) in a critical role of strengthening American communities. Historically in the business of cultural investment through grantmaking and public art, agencies now see an increased focus on broader policy issues. Often driven by comprehensive cross-sector cultural planning efforts, the work of LAAs has expanded greatly into spaces including arts education, placemaking, tourism, economic development, health, transportation, diplomacy, environmental stewardship, and cultural equity. Join panelist representing three public agencies for an interactive 90-minute exploration about the future of the urban arts landscape and the role of the arts at the nexus of cultural, economic, and community development.