Thanks to the tireless efforts of Arts Advocacy West Virginia, Tamerack Foundation, the WV Division of Culture and History, the Industry of Culture group and many other passionate individuals and organizations around the state, we’re thrilled to hear the news that an updated report from Americans for the Arts shows West Virginia’s arts-related and overall creative industries are growing faster than the rest of the country.

• #20 in arts business growth from 2007-2008
• #9 in arts-related employee growth

“Creative Industries” are defined as: visual arts and photography (33% of national total), design and publishing (28%), performing arts (18%), film, radio and TV (16%), arts schools and services (4%) and museums and collections (2%). NOTE: This report does not accurately reflect many non-profit organizations and individual artists, so the numbers are lower than reality.

Even with that caveat, more than 1,837 arts-related businesses employ 9,470 people in West Virginia. While that is significant by itself, you have to consider the impact the arts and creative industries have on drawing other talented, creative workers and businesses to the state in areas of technology, media, research and other industry segments. The creative industries are truly strategic for West Virginia’s future. Make sure your local representatives understand the impact in your community!