Why the Arts?
The City of Richmond recognizes that the arts are integral to vibrant communities.
Home to an immense cultural mosaic, Richmond is characterized by growth, changing demographics and a diverse arts landscape.
Participation in the arts helps us to get to know each other, celebrate our differences, and impacts our health, economy, and overall well-being in remarkable ways.
The arts are proven to help us:- Build interpersonal ties and social networks
- Increase inclusion and celebrate diversity
- Spark innovation
- Relieve stress and promote wellness
- Improve a sense of belonging
- Reduce delinquency in high-risk youth
- Promote volunteering
- Spur economic growth in creative industries
- Support tourism and bolster local pride
Photo: Dream Home, created by community members with 2018 Branscombe House Artist-in-Residence, Keely O'Brien
But wait … what do we mean by “Arts”?
If it feels creative, odds are it counts!
For our purposes, “arts” refers to the broad subdivision of culture, composed of many expressive and creative disciplines. The term commonly encompasses, but is not limited to:
Visual and applied arts
Performing arts
Culinary arts
Environmental and land art
Interdisciplinary practices
Literary arts
Media arts
Community-engaged arts practices
Art Improves Quality of Life
Learning new skills when creating a work of art can improve self-control and confidence in one’s abilities. These activities maintain neurological function, stimulate growth, and recruit pathways crucial to cognitive function. Moreover, the arts can provide opportunities to network, bond over new projects and share experiences which further a sense of community.
Healthy Living Through Art
The arts’ ability to inspire happiness can also improve health. Doctors in Canada are now prescribing arts activities as a health-related therapy, as research has shown that the arts can alleviate stress and reduce the likelihood of depression. Arts engagement can even improve immune function by lowering chemicals that cause the inflammation which triggers diabetes, heart attacks and other illnesses. Music, when complemented with standard therapies, can support many treatments including pain management, speech therapy and treatments for Parkinson’s Disease.
Art Strengthens Communities
When we experience culture — a theatre piece, book, concert, etc. — that addresses a social issue or conveys a new perspective, we gain a better understanding of humanity and the diverse groups we live amongst. Dance, music, photography and other visual arts transcend language and offer a public dialogue that bridges differences between cultural, racial and ethnic groups. Cultural festivals promote celebration and pride and provide an opportunity for individuals to engage with new perspectives and traditions.
A Stronger Economy Through Art
Arts and culture play an important role in promoting economic goals through local regeneration, developing talent, creating jobs, spurring innovation and attracting tourists. Statistics Canada estimates that cultural industries (including broadcasting, film and video, interactive media, design, journalism and crafts) contribute an estimated $53.4 billion in direct contribution to Canada’s GDP and more than 700,000 jobs.
Research and Resources
There is a growing body of research on the benefits and impacts that arts and culture have on our social, economic, emotional and physical wellness.
Want to learn more? A good place to start is with the following institutions which regularly share sector-based insights, research analysis and resources.