ASSET MAPPING

All the artists, musicians, artisans, and local champions highlighted in this section were identified through online research and focus groups. The UGA team researched assets, compiled them into an extensive list, and then categorized and mapped them using icons. The asset map clearly shows a diversity of valuable arts-related assets across the River Valley. In addition to the diversity of assets identified through online research, additional assets were found through conversations with local champions in each of the communities. Focus group discussions and conversations with community members provided context for the assets identified through online research. While a multitude of efforts exist to showcase the arts in the region, many operate on their own and for one individual county. The pandemic was hard on the arts, and some efforts ceased in 2020.

Through regular conversations, communities could combine efforts related to promoting the arts. This plan proposes the development of a Regional Arts Partnership, a group of local champions who meet regularly to share current efforts, discuss goals, and explore regional opportunities for the arts. These meetings should culminate in a strategy or plan to incorporate existing efforts into a region-wide initiative.

Asset Mapping: Key Takeaways

• Many diverse and valuable arts-related assets

• Many people championing arts efforts as well as existing collaborations

• Assets throughout the whole region, but opportunities for better connection

• Columbus as an arts hub that supports Pasaquan and Zion Episcopal Church

• Pandemic severely affected the arts, with some efforts ending in 2020

• Flint Energies supporting 3 murals in this region: 1 in Buena Vista, and 2 in Butler

• Murals in 5 of the 6 participating counties

• Every community has at least 1 major event

• 2 music festivals: Pasafest and the Historic Zion Church

Blues Festival

• A need and desire for better promotion of artists and artsrelated events

Highlighting Artists, Musicians, and Artisans in the River Valley Region

Many of the assets identifi ed in the River Valley are already examples of leveraging the arts for economic development.

From folk artists with brightly painted wooden signs to technically skilled woodworkers to traditional grain mill operators and bakers, hometown heroes and nationally known artists celebrate the region’s history, tradition, and natural beauty in unique and powerful ways. However famous, they are cherished in their respective communities. Many of these incredible artists, artisans, musicians, and places are already invaluable to their local communities and offer tremendous potential to stimulate wider economic vitality. This section highlights artists, musicians, and artisans from the area. This is just a sampling of the resources that can support a vibrant arts economy across the River Valley.