July 23 – Surrounded by examples of St. Pete’s local artists—a series of “Blue Nudes” hanging neatly on one wall, stunning landscapes coloring another—5 panelists, consisting of artists, local government representatives, and community leaders, convene inside the Soft Water Gallery in the Warehouse Arts District to discuss how to allocate necessary funds after Governor DeSantis unexpectedly vetoed a $32 million budget. The discussion is moderated by Jason Mathis, CEO of Downtown Partnership.

What’s at stake? On a cultural level, St. Pete’s character is inextricably linked to the arts scene. A diminishment in arts funding may negatively impact what lures residents and artists to invest in the Sunshine City: our extensive museums, galleries, studios, and open-air art spaces. Organizations like the Warehouse Arts District Association (WADA) are feeling the brunt, as they operate to support affordable studios and learning programs for artists.

The economic impact of the arts

Highlighting the importance of the arts to the economy, Celeste Davis, Director of Arts, Culture, and Tourism, cites a 2023 economic impact report conducted by John Collins. The study states a total city-wide economic impact of $178,223,493 from art-related businesses. That total represents an estimated 2,852 jobs. Those jobs are now at risk.

Throughout the entire state, Florida’s arts and cultural industry generated $5.8 billion of economic activity, including $2.9 billion by nonprofit arts and culture organizations, according to the Florida Department of State.

Panelists proactively consider solutions

Legislative Aide Andrew Pink, standing in for State Senator Darryl Rouson, explains—and I summarize—that Senator Rouson firmly backs the arts. This is an opportunity for members of the community to express their concerns to the local government and call for action.

Such actions may have to be enacted as legislation, though. Artist and WADA Board Chair, Mark Aeling says, “We need legislation that encourages programs that build and reward commitment to the arts.” In accord with Mark, Margaret Murray, CEO of Creative Pinellas, points out that a new funding model may provide a blueprint for investing in the arts.

Community advocacy and a new funding model may save St. Pete art scene

Margaret Murray cites the potential of adopting a funding model akin to Denver’s. Denver’s model allocates 1/10 of 1% of sales and use tax, distributing $60 million annually across 300 organizations in the seven-county Metropolitan Denver region, according to Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation. Voters in Denver approved the tax in 1998 and the art scene there has thrived since.

Besides advocating locally, City Council Member Gina Driscoll suggests that residents of the ‘Burg can help protect the arts nationally via the Americans for the Arts Action Fund. Americans for the Arts Action Fund is a grassroots organization that impacts electoral and legislative landscapes by supporting pro-arts candidates.

Support and celebrate the arts in St. Pete:

• Get your hands muddy with exceptional ceramics at Atelier St. Pete
• 10 years and 160+ murals later, SHINE continues to transform St. Pete into an open-air art gallery
• Morean Arts Center hosts huge Art Yard Sale this fall with hundreds of pieces available
• Nominations open for first-ever Phoenix Award honoring selfless community heroes