The health, vibrancy, quality, and diversity of Utah’s cultural community is leading the nation in cultural growth and participation. Utah is the third fastest growing state for arts and culture and is #1 in live arts participation per capita. The cultural sector collectively employs just under 112 thousand Utans a year while generating $4 billion in earnings, according to data compiled in Utah Cultural Alliance’s just published 2018 State of UT Culture report
“It’s because we have this history of hard work and love of the arts and humanities that the cultural sector has an impact in Utah. People recognize the immense benefits of cultural participation and they are willing to work to make it happen.” – Crystal Young-Otterstrom (Executive Director of Utah Cultural Alliance)
Cultural treasures like the Moab Music Festival, Escalante Canyons Art Festival, and the Sundance Film Festival not only enhance tourist experiences while in the state but bring national and international visitors. The Sundance Film Festival in 2018 had 1,000 international visitors, and 45,000 out of state visitors. 20% of attendees had never been to Utah before. Utah also hosts the prestigious Gina Bachauer International Piano Competition every two years.
“Cultural Tourism protects natural and cultural resources, which improve the quality of life for residents and travelers who participate in the services and attractions of our local destination.” – Scott Beck (CEO of Visit Salt Lake), a quote from the report.
The Utah Cultural Alliance will publicly release its 2018 State of Utah Culture report on June 20th. A facebook live event will walk viewers through the report and the impact the cultural sector has on Utah’s Economy highlighting data such as; Utah County has 24,204 creative occupations and brings in $1.2 billion in creative industry earnings and Sanpete County brings 14.8 million in creative industry sales while business consider a vibrant cultural environment the #1 most important factor when moving or expanding in SLC.
The report also highlights data revealing the impact of arts and humanities on education, quality of life and health. Studies at the University of Utah have found that for Alzheimer patients, music activated the brain in a way that caused communication across regions. They are looking at music as a therapy treatment to increase the quality of life for patients and their family.
“We are so excited to share data that reinforces what most people in Utah already believe. The arts and humanities impact us on all levels and it’s gratifying to see that reflected in the numbers.” Kylie Howard (report writer)
Who: Utah Cultural Alliance
What: Public release of the 2018 State of Utah Culture Report
When: June 20th 10:00 am
Where A computer near you via www.facebook.com/utculture
How: Facebook Live Event
About UCA
Founded in March 1980, Utah Cultural Alliance (UCA) is the statewide advocate for the humanities and arts. We amplify culture’s contributions to Utah’s economic, family, and community life. You can read more about our mission atwww.utculture.org
Utah Cultural Alliance is also the manager of nowplayingutah.com, the statewide calendar of everything to see and do in Utah with a heavy emphasis on the arts and humanities. The site sees 1.3 million unique visitors a year.