EDITORIAL: Arts add to richness, uniqueness of local community

Published 9:11 am Wednesday, February 12, 2020

Milledgeville is home to the state’s flagship liberal arts university and access to a rich and robust arts culture not seen by many communities its size. With three colleges, museums and award-winning fine arts programs, there is certainly a lot to offer — and a lot more to appreciate — adding to the fabric of the local community. 

Thriving arts and cultural scenes that are supported help cities attract tourists, talent and foster innovation and growth. 

And when we champion the arts — everyone — from individuals, nonprofits and cultural organizations, to businesses, schools and even government — benefit in the long-run.

Whether it’s storytelling or a live performance at Allied Arts, First Friday, a show at the Campus Black Box Theatre, an exhibit or a dance performance at Russell Auditorium, what’s to see runs the cultural gamut. 

Local museums such as Andalusia, the Old Capital Heritage Center, the Sallie Ellis Davis House, Georgia’s Old Capital Museum or the Herty Hall planetarium offer something for every age range and contribute not only culturally but also economically to the community through tourism dollars. Let’s not also forget that the award-winning Deep Roots Festival draws thousands to Milledgeville every October. 

A thriving arts community serves as a cultural hub, helping preserve and celebrate cultural heritage and identity by making it accessible to the locals and tourists alike. 

The vitality of art districts also encourages young people to pursue creative endeavors, inspiring them to put their best forward on stage as well — and it shows. 

The Baldwin County School District has earned national recognition as a Best Community for Music Education award winner multiple times. Georgia Military College Prep School won literary last year for the fifth year in a row and John Milledge Academy’s One-Act Play team brought home a state championship last year while the BHS Band of Braves was among the halftime performers last month at the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans, La. 

Artist-in-residence programs have brought award-winning performers and artists most local students never would see to their schools. 

Arts education advocates often note that the arts help children develop their artistic talents, encourage some to stay in school, build future audiences, while teaching young people about history and past civilizations. 

Arts and culture contribute to the overall wellness of communities, a factor that is often considered when families look to relocate. It’s no secret, too, that prospective businesses and industries look at access to arts and culture for their employees when considering relocation or expansion. 

Art and its impact on society play a significant role in civic participation. 

We mustn’t forget that and we must continue supporting these cultural endeavors.