Public Policy and the Arts: Public Policy Proposal: Artist Storefront Program

One cannot deny the power of arts and culture to enhance the quality of life of a city. For instance, Cincinnati provides diverse artistic and cultural experiences to its residents through the symphony, opera, ballet, theaters, dance organizations, art and history museums, and many more institutions. According to ArtsWave’s research “The Arts Ripple Effect,” the arts do not only provide special experiences, but the arts also revitalize the community, making neighborhoods more vibrant and attractive. As an example, many cities have implemented public art programs in the community (e.g. downtown areas). These programs have been successful because they enhance the city, helping generate public interest and adding to the economy.

My proposal is to implement an Artist Storefront Program in downtown Cincinnati. The Artist Storefront Program would help facilitate the renovation process of vacant commercial property and storefronts by utilizing local artists who will create paintings, installations, and sculptures. Downtown Cincinnati is home to many arts organizations. There is also a vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene that complements the arts and culture in the area. However, there are areas of downtown Cincinnati (e.g. parts of Over-The-Rhine) that have been hit hard by the economic downturn which need to be restored and revitalized to further complement the thriving downtown area. This Artist Storefront Program will rejuvenate hard-hit neighborhoods, stimulate the aesthetics of the area, attract residents and tourists, and advance economic development. Moreover, this program will help artists bring art to diverse communities. Also, the artists will have the chance to create exciting and innovate art installations, creating more opportunities to experience art-related activities in downtown Cincinnati.

Many cities across the United States have implemented Artist Storefront projects. Here is an example:

In October 2009, San Francisco created a pilot program called Art in Storefronts. According to the San Francisco Arts Commission website, the pilot program “engages San Francisco-based artists to reinvigorate neighborhoods that have been hard-hit by the economic downturn.” The program was initiated by Mayor Gavin Newsom and represents a partnership between the Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD), the San Francisco Arts Commission (SFAC), and neighborhood based cultural and economic development organizations.

“The first round of Art in Storefronts was a huge success and I’m happy to have the program grow into Chinatown,” said Mayor Gavin Newsom. “Vacant storefronts with boarded up windows became destinations for vibrant contemporary art. The increased foot traffic made neighbors feel safer and stimulated the local economy. The participating artists shared their work with a diverse new audience. Visitors and locals gained a better understanding and appreciation for San Francisco’s tremendous creative community, which is one of the things that makes our city so special.”

In order to implement this policy, the city of Cincinnati will need to enlist the help of the Department of Community Development, the Cincinnati Recreation Commission, ArtWorks, and neighborhoods and various city officials. The city officials will help locate different commercial property owners who will let their spaces be used. In addition, the Cincinnati Recreation Commission and ArtWorks will work together to select the artists and arts organizations who will be involved in the creative process. The Department of Community Development will provide a stipend to the artists through allocated City funds. Neighborhoods will also be involved in the conversation by identifying innovative ways to enhance their space.

The Artist Storefront Program has been successful in cities like Phoenix AZ, Pittsfield MA, and Seattle WA. The project will help create jobs for artists, as well as opportunities to experience contemporary art. In addition, both the city and the economy will be revitalized. Most importantly, the project will further enhance this vibrant community of Cincinnati through the arts.