Who is a member?
Our members are the local governments of Massachusetts and their elected and appointed leadership.
An MMA webinar with the Mass Cultural Council discussed how arts and culture can drive growth and strong economies in municipalities. Pictured are (clockwise from top left) Mass Cultural Council Executive Director Michael Bobbitt, Mass Cultural Council Program Manager Lisa Simmons, Chicopee Mayor John Vieau and Falmouth Select Board Member Doug Brown.
An MMA webinar with the Mass Cultural Council today discussed how arts and culture can drive growth and strong economies in municipalities.
Mass Cultural Council Executive Director Michael Bobbitt reviewed the mission, vision and impact of his organization.
“We strive to integrate arts and culture into all aspects of Massachusetts by celebrating traditions and talents, championing its collective needs, and equitably investing public resources,” he said.
The council’s Communities Team discussed funding opportunities and programs available to municipalities, including the Cultural Facilities Fund and Festivals and Projects Grant.
Program Officer Carolyn Cole defined cultural districts as “specific locations with a concentration of cultural facilities, activities and assets.”
“These areas are lively, engaging, and authentic, intending to attract artists and cultural enterprises, encouraging business development, and enhancing property values,” Cole said.
Program Manager Lisa Simmons discussed the benefits of appointing a local cultural council led by special municipal employees.
Chicopee Mayor John Vieau and Falmouth Select Board Member Doug Brown discussed how their municipalities support and promote the arts.
Chicopee has nearly 75 grantees who have received awards, Vieau said.
“We’re excited about the opportunity for the community, and the greater Western Massachusetts area, to explore culture and arts,” he said.
Brown said the Falmouth Cultural Council “has done an excellent job to bring in more visitors” to his town.
On June 18, the MMA will host a second webinar with the Mass Cultural Council, when officials from municipalities with thriving cultural communities will discuss how to build public support for arts, culture and tourism, celebrate different traditions and talents, and promote economic opportunity within cities and towns. Click here for details and registration.
• The Power of Culture: Why Arts, Culture and Creativity Matter in Massachusetts (4M PDF)