ICONIC EVENTS AS COMMUNITY CATALYSTS Large-scale civic and regional events can promote a sense of identity, and strengthen economic activity across a range of sectors. Understanding the role of large-scale events in driving local and regional change is moving beyond a focus on visiting attendees or even the establishment of a regional “character.� Festivals have entered into the field of cultural studies alongside film, music, and new media from online communities to video games, as vital forms of cultural expression. Large scale and iconic events are being recognized for their ability to reshape landscapes -- and it is not only the Olympics and the World Cups capable of having the most far-reaching effects. Regional festivals and events are increasingly seen not only as one-time occasions, but as catylysts for lasting change. This idea is foundational in moving past a touristbased approach to urban activation through public events and creating bridges to the parallel fields of urban planning, education and economic devopment. Understanding of the role of events in defining urban character, developing sense of place, and promoting growth begins with the idea that festivals are unique opportunities that can take on a a diversity of forms. They can be directed toward profound impact in terms of regional economy and the development of specific industries, arts and cultural assets, sustainability, livibility and pride.
(c) Emily Appelbaum / i n t e r t e x t u r e Not for distribution.
ArtPrize takes place every year in Grand Rapids, a three-week long festival that reinterprets the city through a series of surprising artistic gestures, culminating in a citywide vote for the greatest civic intervention.