12/20/2023
Discovering The Smith Center
Recent study highlights importance of supporting the arts, both economically and holistically
Nonprofit arts and culture events generated more than $500 million in economic activity throughout Southern Nevada last year.
That was one of several key findings of a recent survey conducted by Americans for the Arts, which included the region for the first time in its analysis of collected 2022 data.
The Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 (AEP6) study also found that nonprofit performing arts venues like The Smith Center combined to support more than 7,000 local jobs, provide more than $325 million in personal income to residents and generate more than $118 million in tax revenue to local, state and federal governments.
Additionally, the survey determined, those who attended cultural events in the City of Las Vegas spent an average of $48 per person beyond the cost of admission, representing vital income for local merchants.
“This data confirms what we’ve known in the arts industry – that the arts have a significant economic impact in the State of Nevada,” said Erica Hill, community arts development specialist for the Nevada Arts council, a government agency that promotes and supports the arts in Nevada.
The AEP6 survey results were collected at nonprofit arts and culture events during the spring of 2022 at venues such as The Smith Center, which provided support for gathering data.
Economic Impact Of The Arts
$500 million+ in economic activity
7,000+ local jobs
$325 million+ in personal income
$118 million+ in tax revenue
In addition to the economic impact, the results demonstrated that supporting and attending local arts and culture programming helps Southern Nevadans feel more connected to their community.
For example, 87% of those who attended nonprofit arts and culture events in the City of Las Vegas found that the activity they participated in or the venue where they were surveyed “inspir[ed] a sense of pride in this neighborhood or community.”
And 85% of those surveyed within Las Vegas agreed that they “would feel a sense of loss if this activity or venue were no longer available.”
“This survey data truly reinforces the original and continuing mission of The Smith Center – to create and maintain a place where Las Vegans can connect to their community through the arts,” said Myron G. Martin, President and CEO of The Smith Center. “We’re also proud of the vital role The Smith Center plays in impacting the local economy.”
The survey’s local results echoed overall reactions nationally, where 86% of arts and culture attendees agreed that such activities are “important to their community’s quality of life and livability,” and 79% understand that the arts are “important to their community’s businesses, economy and local jobs.”
Nationally, AEP6 found, the nonprofit arts and culture sector was a $151.7 billion industry in 2022, supporting 2.6 million jobs, providing $101 billion in personal income to residents and generating $29.1 billion in government revenue.
Community Connectivity
87% agree the activity/venue inspired “as sense of pride in this neighborhood or community”
85% agree they “would feel a great sense of loss if this activity or venue were no longer available”
“Every year, more than 100,000 nonprofit arts and culture organizations in the U.S. are making their communities better places to live and work by beautifying cities, fueling creativity, celebrating diversity and bringing joy to residents,” Randy Cohen, vice president of research for Americans for the Arts, wrote in the report.
“Investment in the nonprofit arts and culture industry builds the communities where people want to live and work,” Cohen continued. “When we prioritize diverse cultural expressions and traditions, it nurtures social connections, promotes community pride and identity and boosts tourism by providing the authentic experiences that draw visitors to the community.”
(This story was updated on January 23, 2024.)