From Art to Zoo, Arts Alliance Promotes Culture
Published Jul 07, 2009
Central New Mexico appreciates the arts.
More than 250 arts organizations operate in the region, and thousands of artists live here. The organizations run the gamut – everything from the Albuquerque Flute Association to Basement Films.
“The arts in Albuquerque involve dance, theater, music, visual and literary arts, and include diverse individual sectors such as the film industry, symphony, museums and even an entertainment attraction such as the zoo,” says Cricket Appel, executive director of Arts Alliance, an umbrella arts council for Greater Albuquerque.
“The Arts Alliance works with the city and Bernalillo County to implement a cultural plan,” she says, “and we ultimately decide where the local efforts and dollars should be placed toward the arts each year.”
“Dollars” has become a key word in the local arts community. A 2007 study by the University of New Mexico’s Bureau of Business and Economic Research showed that arts and cultural businesses generate $1.2 billion for the economy each year. The arts account for 19,500 jobs and $415 million in annual wages.
“The many ethnic groups who live here are all very involved,” Appel says, adding, “Diversification in the arts is a big reason why Central New Mexico is so interesting, creative and talented.”
Story by Kevin Litwin
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