Despite budget cuts, arts in Wichita thriving
The arts in Wichita, and in Kansas, were not spared in recent budget cuts across the state.
Like all economies big and small, the division had to evaluate what was important.
"What arts organizations had to do, just like all the businesses did, is they had to re-examine their mission, they had to re-examine their business model, and focus on those types of programs that they're able to sustain," said John D'Angelo, Wichita Arts and Cultural Services Manager.
Angelo said they have taken less risks than in the past, redirecting their attention to its core missions.
However, the arts in Wichita remain vibrant, as a recent study suggests.
"Basically what it told us is that the arts are a business - are an industry," D'Angelo said. "They generate about $66 million in economic activity for the city of Wichita."
That has translated to support about 2,000 fulltime arts-related jobs, as well as $6.5 million in local and state taxes.
It also has brought a steady stream of visitors from neighboring communities.
"Out of the 1.9 million people that participated in the arts during this study period, 25.9 percent of those were people outside of the Wichita area," D'Angelo said.
The study showed that a typical Wichita resident would spend about $11on refreshments, meals and souvenirs while enjoying the arts programs. Those residing outside of the city spent more than $25 per person per trip.
"The performing arts, and the arts in general, are just part of the mix that really brings a vibrancy downtown," D'Angelo said. "The arts are a real anchor to that."
D'Angelo discussed the state of the arts in Wichita on KFDI's "At Issue" program with George Lawson. A copy of the podcast can be found by clicking here, or by visiting our podcast section.
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