The Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada (EDAWN)  hosted a community luncheon on Thursday, September 22 with presentations that were focused on the important link of our arts and culture to economic development.Â
The luncheon was held at the Eldorado Resort Casino with Mike Kazmierski, EDAWN President and CEO, providing an overview of the regional economic development activity, the Performing Arts Feasibility Study, and the Art Map.
David Walker from the Nevada Museum of Art, Beth MacMillan from Artown and Annie Zucker from the Sierra Arts Foundation also spoke on the importance of our community arts assets and how they are connected to catalyzing economic vitality.
More than 300 business and community leaders gathered to learn how art helps encourage businesses to move to northern Nevada.Â
EDAWN says the activities and assets of the arts and culture sector and our local economic vitality are connected in many ways. They say it improves our community's competitive edge, attracts visitors and workforce, and creates a positive quality of life.
Beth MacMillan, Executive Director of Artown said, "That's a great reason for people to want to relocate to any area is if an area is rich in arts and culture and Reno certainly is that."
Macmillan goes on to say that art is one of the big reasons behind the flourishing of Midtown in recent years.
