The role of the arts in civic processes manifests in many different directions but focuses on the power of the arts to bridge gaps in understanding, offer new and innovative ways of thinking about challenges, and to catalyze change. The arts provide a focal point for dialogue, spark individuals to action, and reduce barriers to participation.
86% INCREASE IN CIVIC INVOLVEMENT
Arts activities increase residents’ interest in getting involved in local issues and projects. Eighty-six percent of civic engagement participants want to be involved in future projects, and after their involvement, people living where projects occurred were more than twice as likely to be civically engaged as those whose blocks did not have projects.
ARTS BRIDGE LANGUAGE
Children from immigrant and resident populations cohere best when barriers around language come down. Research shows that art making provides a common bridge and increases friendship, empathy, and mutual trust.
2X AS LIKELY TO REGISTER TO VOTE
Young people engaged in participatory arts are highly motivated to vote. A study of young artists found that 84 percent of participants were likely or very likely to vote when eligible/in the next election, compared to just 44 percent of 18-24-year-old who voted in the previous election.