Arts and economics

By Carolyn Sloan

The Spectator

NovaNewsNow.com

A friend graduating with a bachelor of arts in creative writing went to see the university’s career counsellor to discuss what professional avenues she might pursue.

“Well,” he said. “You can always be a waitress.”

It’s not unlike when artist Brad Hall is asked the dreaded question, “Do you really work?”

“Let me see,” he says. “Six days a week, 12 hours a day. No, not much.”

It’s laughable, but in both these cases, there would seem to be this underlying assumption that creativity and the arts have no place in our economy.

Here’s another example. In Annapolis County, there is an abundance of world-class artistic talent. While this wealth of creativity is so often cited as an important asset in the region, rarely is it considered a player in rural economics, unlike the industries of tourism and information technology.

Any yet, why should the arts sector be any less vital to economic growth?

To try to answer this question, I catch up with artists and associates Brad Hall and Janet Larkman at the Marsh Gallery, where Janet is showing (and selling) her latest work. As more of the little red “sold” stickers go up on the walls, my question about the bearing of art in economics seems particularly fitting, not to mention that in addition to creating art, Janet runs her own economic development consulting business and is the chair of the Annapolis Regional Community Arts Council – two organizations that Brad has also been extensively involved with as well.

“We have an abundance of nature, an abundance of people and a wealth of creativity,” he says. “And with all of that, this region shines… [And yet], there are not many. I think, that look upon makers, arts and craft people of the cultural sector, as fully participating socially and economically. But they do.

“I would guess that probably this sector probably pays more taxes, buys more goods, sells more goods, than any professional or nonprofessional people in other sectors.”

If this is the case, then why is there this disconnection between arts and economics? For Brad, it has a lot to do with the way art and artists are perceived.

“Here in North America, there’s a separation of so-called culture and reality,” he explains. “The culture and the arts and artists breathe different air… Government, socialized government, sees culture as a necessary part, but gets beaten up by more conservative elements.”

As the discussion continues, both Janet and Brad refer to the written work of architect William McDonough, who presents a view of economics that goes beyond preoccupations with bottom-lines and efficiency. It’s rooted in nature, they explain, where there is continual abundance and growth.

“If you look at nature, nature’s not efficient,” says Janet. “Nature is about abundance, but nothing goes to waste. Art and creativity is like that. The more a community is engaged in creativity, the more creativity happens.

“There is an assumption that economics is about monetary transactions… [For us], it’s more about a way of being in the world that is rich.”

From this point of view, the success of local artists cannot be measured through sales alone. As economic and social contributors, artists sell their work, as well as give it away. It is this generosity that allows their way of life to flourish, but it also supports community sustainability as well. After all, when has taking without giving been a sound economic practice?