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Guest Column

A city that supports arts makes all citizens richer

By STANTON STORER
Published July 20, 2007

Editor's note: The following guest column is in response to the question: "What do we think about Tampa's art community, and is it adequate or should more be done to support local artists?" The question was posed in the July 6 City Times column, "Canvas for a city arts district unfinished." To read that column, go to opinion.tampabay.com/tubbs.

"What do we think about Tampa's art community, and is it adequate or should more be done to support local artists?"

Wow! Where do I start? Perhaps with culture, the importance of philanthropic initiatives, our elected city officials, art appreciation a.k.a. education or simply our priorities.

The focus and leadership of such community-based initiatives start with those who can effect change - local politicians, leaders in the community, business owners, individuals cultured in the arts and, yes, even us, the taxpayers, can and should, all lead by example.

Most major, progressive cities are truly cognizant of the importance of supporting the "arts." Whether it is museums, symphony, theater, dance, local galleries or public arts projects, fine art benefits all of us in immeasurable ways. Among the benefits, art provides a conduit for education, awareness and creativity.

For those who chose not to comprehend the rewards of publicly supported arts - and this includes many of our elected officials - it is likely they have never done any extensive traveling outside of their own microcosm. Understandably, Tampa is not, and will never be, Chicago, New York, Boston, Seattle, or any of a dozen other U.S. cities. However, one only needs to look as close as Sarasota or St. Petersburg to discover two local examples where communities reap the rewards. Their exuberance is apparent via the public art projects, as well as community support for their museums and performing arts.

Earlier, I mentioned "philanthropic initiatives." I am referring to both financial and art donations by those who believe that the act of "giving" enriches others. I am also referring to corporations and individuals who have the ability to invest in art, at every level.

I applaud those who are brave enough to choose art as their passion and career. The University of South Florida's CAM and Graphic Studio, the Tampa Museum of Art, the University of Tampa's Studio-f, Blue Acier and a plethora of quality galleries offer Tampa-specific treasures that could benefit from additional community support.

More importantly, the community could benefit from them.

Tampa has many talented artists, some of whom are internationally renowned. I challenge everyone to find an artist - or artists - to support. Regardless of your passion, there is at least one local artist that represents your interests.

Imagine a world without art. Locally, regrettably, it is easy to do. With increased awareness and direction, all of us in Tampa should strive for a community that actually supports the arts.

In this age of out-of-control property taxes, decreasing water supplies, soaring fuel prices, the continued escalation of war in Iraq, one might think that supporting the arts would be the easiest of initiatives to embrace.

Stanton Storer lives in Tampa and is a patron member of the Tampa Museum of Art.

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[Last modified July 19, 2007, 07:59:48]