I am a strong advocate for arts and the humanities with an emphasis on the diverse cultures and immigrant groups who have contributed to the social fabric of our state. As a member of the Salt Lake Buddhist Temple, I am proud of our contribution to the city including the Nihon Matsuri (spring Japanese festival), Fall food festival, and Obon Festival (summer festival held in rememberance of our ancestors).
Public funding for the arts and humanities is an integral part of our society. Local arts and humanities organizations help our community and add diversity to our understanding of elements that are not often discussed or taught through formal educational endeavors.
Public art spaces are wonderful. Often, local artists or amateur artists (through schools or local art programs) may wish to display their work free of charge. This relationship would benefit the community and the artist and be of low or no cost to the building owner.
As mentioned above, the Percent for Art Program is a worthy project and should be included in our municipality. However, there are other options for public display of art other than a financial mandate such that the artist, community and building owner may all benefit.
I love living in Utah because of all the cultural and art festivals and activities. As a family, we try to attend as many as possible and I clearly see the local economic benefit. The recognition of our city and state as friendly to art and the humanities will only broaden our economic appeal.
Again, I am a supporter of municipal funding for local art programs since so many members of the local community benefit from such programs.
Public (government) and private partnerships have been shown on multiple occasions to provide both a cultural and economic boost to the community. Salt Lake City and Utah is already a tourist destination and the strong support for arts and humanities would only enhance that reputation.
Cultral districts work well in multiple cosmopolitan cities in the United States and abroad. I am in favor of looking at all funding options including tourism taxes.