Arts and Culture Plan for the Greater Flint Arts Council

MASTER PLAN FOR A SUSTAINABLE FLINT 11 ARTS & CULTURE PLAN

VISION P. 263 GOAL & OBJECTIVES P. 265 RECOMMENDATIONS & BEST PRACTICES P. 267 IMPLEMENTATION P. 275

Source: Joel Rash

Imagine Flint Master Plan for a Sustainable Flint • Arts & Culture Plan ARTS & CULTURE PLAN V ision 11 ARTS & CULTURE PLAN VISION, GOAL & OBJECTIVES

Flint is on the verge of achieving Imagine this vision. Flint is one of Michi- SOCIAL EQUITY & public spaces and vacant lots that gan’s top arts and culture destina- SUSTAINABILITY QUALITY OF LIFE YOUTH are activated and energized by tions, home to world-class facilities murals, sculptures, paintings, and such as the Flint Cultural Center performance art pieces developed and a strong network of civic and Arts and Culture can be a powerful medium to articulate Arts and culture is an integral piece in defining local quality of Access to arts and culture is incredibly important for shaping by local artists. grassroots organizations. However, injustices and bring societal inequities to light. We must life. While providing pleasure and enjoyment to viewers, art is positive youth behavior. Through developing cognitive skills we must first face existing realities: recognize arts and culture as a tool in promoting social equity also a strong outlet for personal growth, self-expression, and and increasing academic success, engaging in the arts can deter Imagine a Flint where arts and art education has been cut in and awareness and empower residents of all backgrounds and wellness. It can also be utilized to beautify the City’s environ- young people from involvement in negative behaviors such as culture are sewn into the fabric of many schools, some residents ex- neighborhoods to share their stories. ment by adding color and visual appeal. crime. Youth who are grounded in their cultural traditions and every neighborhood, with homes, press unequal access to the City’s histories are confident and resilient. churches, schools, and com- art and culture resources, and the munity centers acting as artistic City’s extensive cultural offerings laboratories of creative innovation, are often not well coordinated. community engagement, and civic pride.

Imagine Flint as a regional cre- The “Arts and Culture Plan” is a ative hub with a dynamic creative roadmap to overcoming those RESHAPING THE ECONOMY ADAPTING TO CHANGE CIVIC LIFE economy, where arts and culture obstacles and to actualizing a new are an integral piece in defining lo- community vision. By following the cal quality of life and artists are the recommendations outlined in this Creative industries are key drivers of economic growth. By Artists stand ready to transform Flint. Flint’s vacant land and Arts and culture support civic life in many ways. Art can be a City’s innovative problem solvers chapter, arts and culture can be- becoming a regional creative hub and cultivating local arts structures present artists with a unique opportunity to turn bridge between cultures, as well as a way to discover mean- and visionary thinkers. come a part of everybody’s daily entrepreneurs, Flint can encourage urban regeneration and these spaces into beautiful and vibrant installations. Similarly, ing and shape conversations about challenging topics. Local life and be accessible to all. increase tourism opportunities. involvement in arts and culture creates lifelong learners who traditions, celebrations, and lore remind us of who we are and can proactively respond to the ever-changing needs of self and what makes Flint unique. society.

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Imagine Flint Master Plan for a Sustainable Flint • Arts & Culture Plan G oal & O bjectives GOAL: ARTS & CULTURE PLAN Arts and culture should be a part of everyone’s daily life and accessible to all.

Objective #1 Objective #4 Objective #7 Use art and cultural programming to create dynamic public Increase youth participation in arts and cultural program- Develop a sustainable, long-term mechanism to implement the GUIDING PRINCIPLES spaces. ming. Arts and Culture Plan and create a stable funding source for arts The ways in which the Goal & Objectives of the Infrastructure and culture organizations and programming. and Community Facilities Plan have been influenced by the guiding Leveraging local talents to create public art and culturally rich program- Expanding arts and cultural activities for all of our youth will stimulate principles are indicated using the following symbols. ming will beautify and energize our communities and allow residents to a lifelong love for learning, provide safe outlets for self-expression, Whether forming a new entity or tapping into existing organizations, imple- Social Equity & Sustainability freely express themselves. and encourage creative and critical thinking. mentation requires coordinated action, continued advocacy for arts and • culture, and a commitment to fund raising to ensure long-term sustainability. • Reshaping the Economy •••••• •••• ••• • Quality of Life Adapting to Change Objective #2 Objective #5 Objective #8 • Integrate arts and culture into Flint’s neighborhoods. Develop a thriving local “creative economy” of artists, cre- Use the arts and culture to encourage civic discourse and Youth • ative professionals, and cottage arts industries. community problem solving. Civic Life Arts and culture should not be confined to museums and universities, • but cultivated and celebrated in homes, churches, schools, and com- Flint can invest in its future by creating, attracting, and sustaining job Arts and culture can be used as a mechanism to engage stakeholders in munity centers across the City. Empowering residents to engage in visual, opportunities for forward-thinking artists, entrepreneurs, musicians, and dialogue about tough community challenges, share ideas, and collectively spoken, written, and performance art broadens cultural participation and creative professionals. discover potential solutions. communicates Flint’s rich diversity. ••••• •• ••••• Objective #3 Objective #6 Expand access to and involvement in arts and cultural activi- Brand Flint as a regional creative hub and market Flint’s cul- ties. tural offerings both internally (to residents) and externally (to tourists, prospective residents, and businesses). By improving awareness of the opportunities that do exist, designing offerings to be culturally relevant, and reinforcing a commitment to serve By advertising and promoting Flint’s unique opportunities, Flint can those with the greatest barriers to participation, we can ensure that capitalize on increasing demand for cultural offerings and attract tourists, every person has the opportunity to be enriched and to enrich others new residents, and businesses to both make Flint residents aware of the through arts and culture. City’s wonderful assets and ensure broader, more diverse audiences for the City’s institutions. •••• •••• Imagine Flint Master Plan for a Sustainable Flint • Adopted October 28, 2013 265

Imagine Flint Master Plan for a Sustainable Flint • Arts & Culture Plan ARTS & CULTURE PLAN BEST PRACTICES 11 ARTS AND CULTURE PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS & BEST PRACTICES

lthough many people Arts and culture play an impor- ing recommendations. The Arts Athroughout the world are tant role in preserving Flint’s local and Culture Plan presents an TABLE OF CONTENTS familiar with Flint’s plight of indus- history, establishing an identity and opportunity to establish greater trial disinvestment, manufacturing sense of place, contributing to communication and collaboration decline, and population loss, fewer the local economy, and providing between Flint arts and cultural Arts & Culture Organizations �� 268 realize that the City is a strong educational enrichment. Visual organizations, increase accessibil- Flint Cultural Center ��268 arts and cultural community. De- arts, performing arts, literary arts, ity to services, expand participa- Grassroots Arts Organizations ��268 spite years of economic decline, public art, community events and tion, recognize additional funding Festivals & Flint Traditions ��270 many arts and cultural organiza- festivals, historic preservation, and opportunities, revitalize the built Social Group-Specific Organizations ��270 tions have not only managed to more, represent the wide and environment, assert the City’s Greater Flint Arts Council ��270 survive, but in some cases have diverse range of offerings that identity through cultural expres- Community Arts & Cultural Surveys...... 270 been able to expand services. A collectively comprise the arts and sion, and promote a positive Greater Flint Community Cultural Plan: Forging Links...... 270 2013 sample of 10% of Flint’s arts cultural foundation of Flint. image of the City of Flint. Our Town Grant...... 270 and cultural organizations, ranging Arts & Culture Priorities �� 271 With a history of support from Arts and culture enrich our lives from a nationally recognized team Revitalization through Art ��271 residents who are passionate and improve our life experience. of teenage spoken-word artists Neighborhood Arts & Culture Integration...... 271 about the arts and culture, Flint Moving forward, the City must to an award-winning art museum, Access & Involvement ��272 will continue to sustain and build continue to leverage arts and highlight the impact of these Youth & Education...... 272 upon its existing offerings to culture as a way to strengthen organizations on Flint. Collectively, Attracting & Retaining Artists & Creative Professionals...... 273 further enhance the programs, Flint’s overall image, and quality of these organizations spent approxi- Funding for the Arts ��273 facilities, education, and outreach life while recognizing that arts and mately $11.4 million in employee Marketing Art & Cultural Opportunities ��274 related to arts and culture. culture must be accessible and salaries and served nearly 1.1 mil- Civic Engagement...... 274 reflect the heritage and diversity lion visitors (encounters) annually. This section describes how the of our residents. Many more small grassroots arts City can partner with cultural groups and cultural organizations entities to enhance the presence contribute to the vibrancy of Flint. of art and culture in the community. A Plan translates the cultural needs and identity of a community into a tool for implement-

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Source: Adam Lock ARTS & CULTURE Genesee County’s arts and Flint Cultural Center The FCCC facilities have a com- primary emphasis on Flint (the dours, who travel to schools and Grassroots Arts Although there has been strong ORGANIZATIONS cultural organizations range from Flint has a wide-range of arts and bined annual visitorship of over Genesee District Library serves youth program sites to introduce Organizations support from local funders and the fairly large to very small. cultural institutions that provide 185,900 and generate over $6.2 communities outside the City), youth to classical instruments) or limited capacity building through The City boasts world-class Many of the smaller arts organi- Together, they provide richness high quality programs and events million in revenue. its free services, and attention to bring new populations in (such organizations like BEST and the cultural amenities on a scale that zations survive with a generous to the cultural offerings in the for people of all ages. The largest programs that cater to the varied as partnering with Head Start to Greater Flint Arts Council, greater is uncommon for a community helping of volunteer leadership City of Flint. Some organizations concentration of these facilities is FIM (which includes the Flint needs and interests of Flint resi- bring low-income preschoolers attention should be paid to grow- of our size. Additionally, more and scrappy persistence. These work close to the grassroots and located in the Flint Cultural Cen- School of Performing Arts, Flint dents. The Flint Public Library has and their families to FIA). ing and stabilizing these small arts than eighty smaller arts and cul- organizations may or may not make a difference by providing ter, a campus with 8 major arts Symphony Orchestra, and Flint faced financial challenges related and cultural organizations. In some tural organizations throughout the have legal 501c3 status, may or sustained support to a small group and cultural institutions with com- Youth Theatre), FPL and FIA to the loss of millage revenue on Similarly, while much of the Whit- instances, these organizations county and approximately 15,000 may not have any paid staff, and of people or seek to address im- bined annual budgets of over $15 (which includes a museum and which it relies, resulting in staffing ing’s success stems from offering may be better served by work- independent artists have found a may or may not have a dedicated mediate challenges such as blight million. The Flint Cultural Center art school) together serve nearly cuts, branch closures, and reduc- entertaining shows that attract ing as a program of a non-profit home in Flint. This is remarkable space for rehearsals and an office. and youth violence through an includes Sloan Museum and Buick 700,000 visitors annually and tions in hours. Finding ways to tourists and visitors from beyond that can provide administrative given severe cuts in arts funding in While many of the smallest groups artistic approach. Others have a Gallery, Longway Planetarium, and employ 176 people. The variety of stabilize funding will be critical to Flint, FCCC served 59,000 stu- and fundraising support while recent years. While many groups may be content to operate infor- singular mission of holding a one- The Whiting, which are operated institutions comprising the Cultural prevent further reductions in ac- dents in 2013. Many of them were they focus on providing services. still struggle financially, Flint is very mally, those seeking to expand day festival to bring thousands of by the non-profit Flint Cultural Center generates a diverse spec- cess to this vital civic institution. reached through partnerships In other communities, this has fortunate to house major cultural and sustain their work frequently visitors into the City and change Center Corporation (FCCC). The trum of exhibits, events, perfor- with schools that either brought proven an effective strategy in institutions that receive substantial struggle with finding the funding Flint’s image. Additionally, some standalone institutions of the Flint mances, and educational programs Organizations such as the Flint educationally-relevant works ensuring the long-term sustainabil- funding and support from private and building the governance and organizations focus on serving the Public Library (FPL), Flint Institute for the general public and school Institute of Music and Flint Insti- directly to students or utilized ity of grassroots arts and cultural and public donors. Our rich arts management systems to do so. cultural needs of specific social of Arts (FIA), and Flint Institute of children. tute of Arts have begun working the talents of visiting artists and organizations. and culture community is one of groups, such as children, or a to expand access and opportunity resources at Sloan Museum to Music (FIM) complete the primary Although the Flint Cultural Center our greatest assets. particular ethnicity. These groups for underserved populations. Both enhance professional development institutions of the Flint Cultural is an amazing resource, many Flint span high art, popular culture, have initiated programs to reduce for teachers. The organizations Center. Sarvis Center, a banquet residents have limited interaction and diverse heritages, all of which or eliminate cost barriers through of Flint’s Cultural Center have and events center, was recently with Cultural Center institutions. strengthen the overall arts and scholarships or free exhibit days. unique and special gifts to offer purchased by FCCC from the Flint The Flint Public Library is the culture scene. Community Schools. the community. These are promis- organization whose patrons most Building relationships with other ing practices that can serve as a closely reflect the diversity of Flint local organizations is another strat- foundation for continued growth in terms of age, income, and race. egy they are using to either deliver and inclusion. This is likely due to a number selected programs in community of factors, including the library’s settings (such as FIM’s Trouba-

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Carpenter Rd 1

CITY OF FLINT Rd Fleming Cultural Facilities

Pierson Rd

Cultural Facilities Legend 26 Flint River Branch Rd Branch Public Art (murals, sculptures, statues) Rd Western

Historical Sites Flint Park Blvd Kearsley Reservoir

Stewart Ave Stewart Ave eek Venues Kearsley Cr 54

College/University Facilities 475

James P. Cole Blvd Cole P. James

Industiral Ave Industiral

Martin Luther King Ave King Luther Martin

Saginaw St Saginaw

Clio Rd Clio Brownell Blvd Brownell Dupont St Dupont Dort Hwy

Museums/Other Cultural ARTS & CULTURE PLAN BEST PRACTICES

Pasadena Ave

Leith St Cultural Facilities Inventory 11 Public Art 20. Masonic Temple Museums/Other Cultural 1. House of Alterations 21. Court Street United 38. Flint Civic/Cultural Campus Dayton St

Methodist Church St Lewis

Dort Hwy Dort Averill Ave Averill 2. Hispanic Technology Center • Whiting Center Hamilton Ave Ave Franklin 3. Flint Stool and Chair Mural 22. Stockton House • Longway Planetarium Hamilton Ave Welch Blvd 2 23. Superintendent's Cottage Davison Rd 4. Flint History Mural • Sloan Museum of Art Welch Blvd 5. Durant and Dort Statues 24. UAW Sit Down Memorial • Flint Youth Theatre 3 6. Automotive Pioneers 25. Quinn Chapel AME Church • Flint Institute of Music Statues Ballenger Hwy 12 • Flint Institute of Arts Martin Luther King Ave 7. Greater Flint Arts Council & Venues

• Flint Public Library Grand Traverse St St Saginaw Robert T. Longway Blvd

Vernor's Mural 26. New McCree Theater Chevrolet Ave • Sarvis Conference Center 38 13 5th Ave 8. The Rock 27. Good Beans Anteroom 39. Flint Children's Museum St Dupont Kearsley St

k 9. Howard Estates 28. Atwood Stadium e e 40. Flint Community Players 5th Ave r C CN RAILROAD 4 35 y e k

10. Semmens Transmissions 29. Flint Local 432 RAILROAD CTX l 36 14 i Mural University Ave Flint River G 30. The Capitol Theatre 15 21 Court St 18 27 5 28 16 19 31. Buckham Gallery 17 6 Historical Sites Flint River 29 30 32. Greater Flint Arts Council Kearsley St 31 39 11. Berston Field House 20 33. Perani Areana and Events Chevrolet Ave 2nd St 32 Sunset Dr 69 12. Donnelly Pavillion Center 7 21 33 37 Court St 10 13. Applewood Estate 34. Machine Shop Concert 22 Lapeer Rd 14. Whaley House Lounge Saginaw St 9 15. Smith/Aldridge House Court St College/University Facilties 23 16. Durant Dort Office Building 25 17. Carriage Factory No. 1 35. Mott Community College Corunna Rd Lippincott Blvd

k e 36. University of Michigan - e 21 r 18. Charles Nash House 8 C

d Flint a re Th Thread 19. First National Bank of Flint Miller Rd Lake

37. Kettering Unversity Swartz Creek Ballenger Hwy Ballenger 475 12th St 54

Saginaw St Dort Hwy Dort 23 40 Rd Fenton

Grand Traverse St Traverse Grand 34 69 Atherton Rd 24

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Festivals & Flint Social Group-Specific Just as important to the cultural Greater Flint COMMUNITY Greater Flint Our Town Grant The newer survey results closely Traditions Organizations fabric of Flint are the organizations Arts Council Community Cultural In 2012, the City of Flint and the mirrored those priorities in arts that may not have an arts focus ARTS & and culture identified in 2004. Flint has a history all its own While there are some elements The Greater Flint Arts Council Plan: Forging Links Greater Flint Arts Council were at all, but nonetheless celebrate, CULTURAL awarded an Our Town grant from Respondents prioritized youth and many festivals celebrate the of local culture that most of us (GFAC) is a non-profit organiza- In the fall of 2004, the Greater preserve, and share the legacies the National Endowment for the programming first, closely followed unique flavors of the City. As the in Flint can relate to, we are a tion whose purpose is to be SURVEYS Flints Arts Council and represen- and experiences of their ethnic Arts. This was matched by local by the need to involve more Flint quintessential car town, Flint’s diverse group of people with a catalyst of, and advocate for, This plan reflects the input tatives from Flint’s cultural centers group. Examples include groups funders and partners to help residents in the arts and develop summertime Back to the Bricks traditions, languages, art forms increased artistic and cultural en- received during the Imagine Flint led the development of Forging organized around Hispanic, Arab incorporate Arts and Culture into vibrant places for arts and cultural car cruise has grown exponen- and legacies of our own. Children richment in our ethnically diverse intensive public input process, but Links and created a cultural plan American, African American, the City’s new Flint Master Plan events. The new survey highlighted tially in the few years since its have places, such as the Flint community. The Council strives to also the results of two City-wide that defined a vision for Flint’s or Jewish heritage. The work of and to fully and creatively engage a deeper understanding of how inception, attracting people from Children’s Museum, that are promote and celebrate the arts cultural focused surveys: the cultural scene. Reaching out to these groups can be harnessed to local citizens in the process of public art could transform the across the Midwest to showcase designed to activate and engage by building new partnerships and Greater Flint Community Cultural more than 150 artists, the com- deepen cross-cultural understand- planning. With the assistance of City’s blight. their classic cars. The Crim Festival their distinct way of exploring the laying the foundations of cultural Plan Forging Links and the Our prehensive survey was conducted ing and help young people build a the BEST Project and Greater of Races has likewise come to world. Some arts groups celebrate growth for all arts in our com- Town Grant surveys. The results and identified a series of priori- sense of connection to their roots. Flint Arts Council, the Our Town be a mainstay of August, and the art forms of specific racial or munity. In addition to offering a of the surveys demonstrate that ties. The cultural plan ultimately the people of Flint recognize the project launched a survey of art- the blue line on the pavement ethnic groups—Flint currently has Many of these organizations number of arts and culture related recommended creating a center value of the arts and culture to ists, arts organizations, and arts marking the course of the 10-mile organizations dedicated to African are small and face challenges in programs, the GFAC offers techni- for youth expression, starting a the City and in their lives. supporters. race is a visual reminder of the drum and dance, Mexican folkloric capacity and fundraising similar cal assistance, such as workshops fine arts academy, establishing an event throughout the year. Such ballet and mariachi performance, to other grassroots organizations. and training to aid arts administra- arts advocacy group, fully utilizing events, along with the monuments and traditional Indian dance, to Strengthening organizations that tors, marketers, and fundraisers. downtown Flint as a cultural asset, commemorating the Sit-Down name a few. provide culturally and ethnically and providing more opportunities Strike and iconic landmarks like rich programming will help ensure in Flint. the painted block at Hammer- that arts and culture in Flint berg, shape a common reference remains culturally relevant to our point for Flint. When you see the population. Weatherball, you know you’re home. As Flint charts its future path, honoring our collective local culture will remain important.

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Source: Joel Rash ARTS & CULTURE Insight collected from the surveys Art can be utilized to revitalize of public art communicate that a One way to bring arts and culture The Artists in Residence program, locating with existing compatible Story in the African American builds the basis for the priorities Flint’s public spaces. Public art is place is cared for, which can have to neighborhoods is by private which placed artist leaders in all organizations present two options. Voice, now manages the building. PRIORITIES outlined in the Arts & Culture also an avenue for revitalization the effect of deterring crime (as a businesses making it part of their nine wards of the City as part Schools are often located in the Other arts and community groups The planning process identified Plan. Recommendations address when it empowers local residents component of Crime Prevention approach. The Good Beans Café, of the NEA Our Town grant, heart of a neighborhood, so their (including the African Drum and key needs to be addressed and the continued health of the arts and artists to reclaim vacant Through Environmental Design). located in the Carriage Town demonstrated another avenue for productive re-use can help stabi- Dance Parent Association) utilize opportunities to be explored. and cultural environment, and of spaces for community art projects. neighborhood, illustrates this op- integrating art and culture into lize the surrounding area. Because classrooms for rehearsal space and The recommendations of the plan the community as a whole. This could include reclaiming Neighborhood Arts & portunity. While many strategies Flint’s neighborhoods. Neighbor- many closed schools may come the auditorium for performances. are underscored by the following housing to convert to artist work Culture Integration for neighborhood arts and culture hood Art Parades were also with high energy costs, invest- Repurposing the former school in themes that were identified from Revitalization studios, or creating temporary art integration focus on non-profit organized by the Flint Public ments in efficiency improvements this way addresses three needs, the various outreach efforts. While central institutions, like through Art installations at brownfields and those of the Flint Cultural Center and government efforts, Good Art Project in conjunction with may help these efforts succeed. embedding culturally relevant arts other underutilized spaces. Local Beans Café shows how to blend neighborhood organizations. One into neighborhoods, restoring a • Revitalization through Art Attracting new audiences from and Applewood Estate, provide outside of Genesee County due arts organizations should work exceptional opportunities for arts and culture with their primary factor common to both ap- Success Story: Former vacant school to productive use, • Neighborhood Arts and Culture to the negative perception of the with the Planning Department involvement in the arts, neighbor- business- coffee. The café features proaches was the commitment to Selby Elementary School and providing a reliable home for Integration City has proven to be a significant to develop policy guidelines for hoods need arts and culture too. visual art on the walls from local put arts resources where people The former Selby Elementary small organizations. • Access & Involvement obstacle for Flint. Participants of artists interested in installing public The City can encourage partner- artists and uses an attached room already lived. Additionally, the City School was sold to a non-profit pieces of art. (dubbed “The Anteroom”) for live should encourage conversations • Youth & Education the 2004 GFAC and 2012 Our ships and strategies that provide organization. The “New” McCree Town survey efforts state that programs that are accessible in music, a recording studio, poetry, regarding the creation of formal Theatre, which is dedicated to • Attracting and Retaining Artists One form of public art that Flint attracting visitors to Flint is difficult terms of cultural relevancy, price, and theatre performances. neighborhood support networks telling the African American and Creative Professionals has plentiful examples of is murals. because of the lack of exciting, and location. Several avenues can to connect neighborhoods with Countless buildings, ranging from The combination is good for the • Funding for the Arts clean, and safe places to visit and be pursued for bringing art to the community-wide arts and cultural vacant storefronts to busy com- café business and good for artists attend a cultural event. Art can City’s neighborhoods to make resources. • Marketing Art & Cultural Op- munity centers, public housing who have a supportive space to be a catalyst for creating vibrant involvement more easily accessible portunities complexes, and private businesses sell their works and perform their The City should look favorably on CITY ARTS TEAM and inviting spaces. However, the and welcome visitors to explore • Civic Engagement feature original works of mural art craft. Private businesses should the inclusion of arts and culture This program is similar to Artshare, using local artists to give dem- growth of downtown festivals and the cultural heritage of distinct on their exteriors. Often, these consider ways to enhance their programs within neighborhoods onstrations and “hand-on” activities. The City Arts Team works events over the last several years neighborhoods. projects are undertaken with an spaces through art or consider as standalone community arts throughout the summer months and offers programs through has demonstrated the power of community centers for children and senior citizens. Evaluation in- artist and community or youth how they may provide a platform centers or as part of multi- arts and culture in creating a desir- terviews are held with each recipient organization to insure quality group working together to create for cultural events. purpose community facilities. The able destination. programming and help make plans for future offerings. a vision that honors that particular reuse of closed schools and/or place. Murals and other forms other abandoned buildings or co-

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Access & Previous assessments show that There are already successful tion, and transportation. The City The Flint community has an In 2013, FCS decided to initi- Local college and university Theatre. Beyond enriching the Involvement the audiences most underserved programs in place that effectively must utilize the recommendations important opportunity to bring ate an arts education planning venues include Mott Community lives of UM students, internships are African Americans and youth provide artistic and cultural oppor- provided in the other chapters of arts and culture programming to process that will assess current College (MCC) Library, University and other programs can add mu- Outreach uncovered perceptions in general. The issue is one of not tunities to underserved residents. this Plan to ensure the goals and its entire youth population. The offerings, needs, and opportuni- of Michigan (UM)-Flint Theatre, Li- tual benefit to the University and that access to arts and culture in only increasing audience diversity For instance, Tapology, housed objectives of the Arts and Culture City should encourage partners ties to provide every student with brary, and University Pavilion, and community-based programs and Flint can be difficult. Even though at current offerings, but also of in the City-owned Berston Field Plan can be realized. in schools and out of schools to high quality arts education. From Kettering Library and Scharchburg should be pursued. there are many arts and cultural increasing the diversity of future House, offers dance instruction increase opportunities for youth this process the district expects Archives. MCC provides Associ- activities available at almost any program options for the under- workshops, historical education, involvement in arts and culture to have a clear plan for how it ate’s degrees in Media Arts and time during the year, there are Youth & Education STEM to STEAM served. The City should increase and concert performances with a through the following strategies. will provide visual, performing, Technology, Graphic Design, and segments of the community that The arts are an important part of Currently, innovation and educa- access and involvement for all focus on Flint youth. In such cases, and media arts education to K-12 Photography, as well as programs are not attending for a number of educating our youth. According to tion remains tied to the STEM residents of Flint. The City can en- the challenge is not so much to students throughout the district. in areas such as Studio Arts or reasons, including: Americans for the Arts, involve- Education subjects – Science, Technology, courage major cultural institutions, adjust program offerings to appeal ment in art and cultural education Arts and culture education As part of the effort, FCS intends Music to position them to transfer Engineering, and Math. However, • They feel unwelcome. such as those of the Flint Cultural to the intended audience, but strengthens problem-solving and enhances positive youth devel- to adopt an arts education cur- to a four-year institution. UM of- in the last century, art was joined Center and the Greater Flint Arts rather to assist with capacity to critical-thinking skills, adding to riculum in compliance with state fers Bachelor’s degrees in several • The programming is not repre- opment in many ways, ranging with these same principles (STEM Council (GFAC), to increase raise funds, provide stable spaces overall academic achievement standards and infuse arts into fields including Studio Art, Visual sentative of their culture or does from nurturing creativity and + ART = STEAM), driving innova- accessibility and provide arts and to practice and perform, and and school success, while also other core subjects. Communication, Art Education, not appeal to their aesthetics. self-expression to deepening tion as much as the other four cultural programming for a wide access back-office services that nurturing important values such understanding of people, histories, Art History, Theatre, and Dance. subjects. STEM to STEAM is a Establishing a district-wide com- • The price is unaffordable. range of interests. Increased mar- relieve leanly-staffed organizations as being part of a team; respect- and ideas, to building technical UM also offers Master-level movement to transform research prehensive arts education plan will • The location is inconvenient. keting efforts and integrating arts to deliver effective programs. ing alternative viewpoints; and skills. For the Flint Community programs in Arts Administration policy to place art and design provide a consistent partnership into of the City’s neighborhoods, appreciating and being aware of Schools (FCS), bolstering its arts and Liberal Studies in American at a higher importance, and to • The time and/or day do not fit While the awareness and diversity framework for the many com- discussed earlier, will also create different cultures and traditions. and culture education programs is their lifestyle. of programming offered will ef- munity organizations wishing to additional avenues for awareness The City has amazing arts and important in order to attract fami- fectively increase involvement in work with FCS on supplemental • They have received no informa- of programs and getting involved. cultural assets, but with signifi- lies that expect robust offerings. tion or communication about artistic and cultural opportunities, cant cuts in arts programming at arts programs. The more we interact, the less we will be divided. The the event. other components influence ac- schools, exposure is limited and Local colleges and universities of- more we get to know each other, the less we will fear each cessibility. The theme of access en- inconsistent. While many youths fer avenues for pursuing studies in other. The more we experience programs of peace, the less compasses many diverse elements may seek out the arts outside of arts and culture as well as venues we will experience incidents of violence. such as safety in public spaces, school, many do not. zoning and policy, effective com- for artistic and cultural activities. - Our Town Report munication, geographic distribu-

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Source: Brett Carlsen Source: Joel Rash encourage the integration of art Existing successful programs Parents & Youth Involvement Attracting & source center. Such efforts should Funding for the Arts Several methods of expanding a fund can additionally serve as a and design in K-20 curriculum. should also be continued. Raise It Parent/caregiver involvement Retaining Artists be explored by interested public, The ability to raise funds for capi- support for the arts and culture community-wide resource for en- Whether or not the STEM to Up! Youth Awareness promotes in arts programming is crucial private, and non-profit partners. that have had some success in suring excellence in programming and Creative tal improvements, event program- STEAM shift happens nationally, youth engagement, expression, for their children’s involvement. When successful, they can compel ming, and general maintenance is other communities are described and maintaining the reputation Flint can further integrate arts and empowerment through Survey participants stressed that Professionals artists to invest their talents in the a challenge for Flint’s arts and cul- below. The City should support of the organizations it supports. into youth life by forging effective workshops held at schools, youth the lack of parental commitment Access to cultural opportunities community and convince aspiring tural entities in a climate of limited conversations by local arts and Such programs are typically led partnerships between education centers, and churches. The Flint to the arts is a major barrier for is one reason people want to artists to pursue their dreams in funding and declining economic culture organizations to explore by a board of directors that is and the arts. Youth Theatre and other youth youth involvement. Without pa- visit and live in cities. Distinctive Flint. conditions. Even institutions such mechanisms such as these that can comprised of respected business centered programming offered rental involvement, many children cultural amenities attract tourism as those at the Flint Cultural Cen- help stabilize funding. and community leaders that are Successful programming like After School & Community- through Cultural Center based or- that need services are never and bring direct spending into ter, which traditionally have had invested in arts and culture in their Artwalk helps bring local art work Based Programming ganizations and the Flint Children’s reached. By getting parents and local economies. Attracting and more dependable funding sources United Fund for the Arts community. to interested citizens. Artwalk, Extracurricular arts educational Museum also provide Flint’s youth caregivers involved and interested retaining artists and creative than many smaller organizations, A United Fund for the Arts has organized by the Greater Flint programs can also provide oppor- with arts and cultural experiences in the arts, it is more likely their professionals is one way to invest are experiencing reductions in the been used elsewhere to support Arts Council, offers a variety tunities for Flint’s youth. The City that encourage critical thinking children will have an interest in in the vitality of Flint. amount of resources available. In local cultural and arts offerings of open house receptions, free should work with partners to map and build on concepts learned in participating in programming on order to preserve the rich arts by raising and allocating funds to Establishing arts-related busi- to the public, to promote the and identify gaps in available after the classroom. These types of arts an ongoing basis. Partnerships with and culture community in Flint, it its member organizations. Such nesses, especially near centers diversity of creative offerings in school and summer programming and cultural programs are valuable Parent-Teacher Organizations will become increasingly important of commerce, can help activate the Downtown. The program has to engage students in the arts. enhancements to school-based and similar groups can encourage to explore and stabilize funding underutilized areas. Strategies for continued to grow in popularity, An “Arts Job Fair” for youth, high offerings. active parent involvement in the opportunities for local artists and attracting such creative businesses providing much needed entertain- school graduates, and university- arts or with their children’s artistic cultural organizations that keep might involve providing low or no ment to the Downtown as well as ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE level students or art internships endeavors. This will assist in foster- the creative community alive. cost loans to artists and creative raising Flint’s visibility in the Arts The City of Flint collaborated with local artists and arts organiza- and externships could provide ing households that are supportive professionals or working with the and Culture Community. tions to explore the role that artists play in communities. With opportunities for students to of artistic activities. Aside from exploring untapped Downtown Development Author- funding provided from a grant from the National Endowment for translate talents learned in these public and private funding sources, the Arts, local artists were hired in each ward of the City, through ity to develop a plan to support programs into art related careers. new and unique financing mecha- the Master Plan, to engage the residents in the arts. The artists art-related business in the Down- nisms should be considered to come from many creative backgrounds including spoken word, town. Independent artists could divert more funding to cultural literary work, theater, beautification, gardening, visual art, sculpture, benefit from more opportunities assets throughout the City. performance, and percussion. Some projects proposed by the art- to exhibit and perform their work ists include signs and artwork by area children, paper lanterns, and and having access to an artist re-

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Annual Fundraising Percent for the Arts Marketing The community’s cultural institu- Another approach may include In addition, arts and culture will However, during the development or Awards Event A “Percent for the Arts” program Art & Cultural tions should market art and improving wayfinding signage to remain a valuable conduit for of this Plan, community stakehold- Some communities coordinate is a financing mechanism for fund- cultural opportunities in Flint. create easier navigation to com- opening community conversa- ers rallied around this notion of an annual fundraising event that ing the installation of public art Opportunities The Flint and Genesee County munity cultural institutions. tions around challenging topics having a single coordinating body draws attention from the public to where private funding is limited or Flint’s arts and cultural facilities Chamber of Commerce has de- and social and political differences. charged with making sure the Arts a thriving local art scene. The cor- nonexistent. Such policies most are on par with facilities seen in veloped the “See What’s Possible” Civic Engagement Organizations should draw upon and Culture Plan is being actively nerstone of this fundraiser could frequently take the form of a city cities double its size. They present marketing campaign to promote As the Arts and Culture Chapter the power of the arts to create implemented. Therefore, it is rec- be a “Community Arts Awards” ordinance, where a fee is charged a diverse range of offerings with Flint and Genesee County. In was being developed, many com- conditions for thoughtful dialogue ommended that additional meet- event that recognizes excellence to large new developments, usu- facilities like The Whiting, which this campaign, many of the City’s munity stakeholders noted the and exchange when seeking to ings are convened with various in various aspects of arts produc- ally as a percentage of the project showcases national acts, to smaller major cultural institutions are high- important role arts and culture bridge divides. stakeholders including representa- tion, including arts administration, cost. facilities like the Flint Youth The- lighted utilizing multiple forms of can play as a vehicle for com- tives from local government (both arts patrons, business support of atre that provide local youths with media. It is important to continue munity dialogue. One example of Many cities have an Arts Authority city and county) to look into the arts, community development, A successful instance of this opportunities in the performing to coordinate with the Chamber that was the Artist in Residence or Arts Commission in charge of whether an existing organization education, and outstanding artistic program is in Chicago, IL, which arts. Places like Applewood Estate to promote available arts and component of the NEA Our shepherding local arts and culture could fulfill the role or whether a works and programs. Funds raised has had a Percent for Arts and Whaley Historical House and cultural programming through this Town Grant, which placed an plans, leading marketing efforts, new coordinating body should be through the event generally are ordinance for funding original Museum provide visitors with campaign. artist in each of the City’s nine advocating for arts and culture formed, and determine the appro- used to support a variety of art artwork since 1978. The ordinance a unique look at Flint’s cultural wards to help engage residents in funding, and in some cases distrib- priate role for such an entity. and cultural programs through a stipulates that 1.33% of the cost history. These first-class cultural Marketing will provide greater discussions about the Master Plan uting funding generated through mechanism such as an arts council. of construction or renovation of facilities are some of Flint’s finest awareness of Flint’s many arts and through arts and cultural activities. programs such as a “Percent for municipal buildings and public features, but would-be tourists cultural opportunities to resi- As the work of implementing the Arts.” These organizations may spaces must be devoted to public may not know of them. dents and visitors who may not the Master Plan begins, it will be or may not be operated under art on the property. In addition, at have previously known. This may critical to continue to engage the auspices of a local govern- least half of the commission must include improving and maintain- residents and arts and culture can ment authority. While it is clear be given to Chicago area artists in ing a comprehensive and publicly serve as a tool for ongoing civic that the City of Flint must be order to support the local creative available database of artists, cre- engagement. involved in helping implement the community. ative professionals, and art venues Arts and Culture Plan, it is unclear including professional and informal whether the City has the capacity artists, arts organizations, art gal- to manage an Arts Authority or leries, and performing spaces. Commission.

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his section presents the Implementation Each strategy in the Implementa- Public Cost Estimate Responsible Entities & Unforeseen Partnership Progress Indicator Tstrategies needed to imple- Matrix tion Matrix is indicated with one Public cost estimate is represented Partner Organizations Opportunities Key progress indicators have been of the following: ment the goals and objectives The following Implementation by a scale ranging from $ to $$$. City government alone is not ca- Every effort was made to identify provided for each strategy group- of the Arts & Culture Plan. The costs in this column refer pable of implementing the Master a comprehensive list of potential ing. Progress indicators identify Matrix groups strategies by topic • Short: low-cost, ease of imple- Taken together, the objectives and only to public costs. Below is a Plan. This is a community vision partner organizations for inclusion quantifiable metrics for which data within each objective and identi- mentation, directly addressing strategies included in this section description of the cost scale: which relies upon Flint’s greatest in the implementation matrix. As should be available on a regular fies anticipated time frame, relative top priorities, or critical to the provide specific direction and assets, its people and community a community of over 100,000 basis and indicate desired trends cost, and the entities, including advancement of other strategies, • : Actions that require primar- serve as a guide for the evaluation $ stakeholders to help implement with a rich history of volunteerism for each metric. These indicators City of Flint departments and and to be implemented within ily internal staff time requiring of development proposals and desired aspirations.” and over 100 foundations active represent measurable achieve- partner organizations, potentially the next 1-5 years mostly regulatory changes, policy land use alternatives. responsible for the implementa- in Genesee County, there may ments that move the City toward • Medium: important actions that updates, or strategic partner- With regard to citing those enti- tion. The matrix also identifies key be instances where a deserving realization of Master Plan objec- have some level of significant ships with limited outside funding ties responsible for implementa- To provide the City with a reliable metrics needed to track imple- organization that is well-matched tives. These progress indicators cost, and can be implemented required tion, it should be noted that it policy guide for decision-making, mentation progress. to one of the plan objectives or will enable the City to monitor its the objectives and strategies are within the next 5-10 years • $$: Actions that require outside is anticipated that, from a policy strategies has been excluded from effectiveness at implementing plan based significantly on community consulting services assistance or standpoint, the Mayor and City a list of potential partners for a recommendations. Time Frame • Long: actions that often require input received through the master significant amounts of funding relatively minor investment in Council will be involved in the given topic. A general time frame is assigned planning process. In addition to that must be planned for over infrastructure or project devel- majority of these actions. broad community input, these to each strategy, considering the time, or require other strategies opment Similarly, there may come a time cost of various types of improve- Where a City Department should objectives and strategies are based to be completed prior to their • $$$: Actions that require when a partner organization iden- ments and their ability to set be involved, that department has on input from the 20-member implementation intensive planning, engineering, tified in the implementation table other actions in motion. Gener- been listed. Where general ad- Arts and Culture Advisory Group, or design, and significant invest- merged with another organization ally, low-cost strategies with easy ministrative leadership is needed, Steering Committee, City officials, ment in infrastructure or project or otherwise ceases to exist. As City staff, and observations and implementation are given the development the City of Flint has been listed. with the rest of the Master Plan, assessment from the Imagine Flint short-term time frame, though Strategies, such as recommended the implementation table is a Project Team. some other actions are given this technical studies and analyses flexible document that should be designation based on their high that would likely benefit from regularly updated and revised to level of priority in meeting com- outside expertise, have also been reflect the evolving needs and as- munity objectives or ensuring the highlighted. sets of the Flint community. safety of residents.

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PUBLIC COST DEPARTMENT / STRATEGY TIME FRAME ESTIMATE ORGANIZATION PROGRESS INDICATOR Objective 1 Use art and cultural programming to create dynamic public spaces.

Establish a program to allow registered artists to scavenge vacant, City-owned properties for re-usable materials. Medium $ • Community-Based Organizations Encourage pop-up cultural spaces in underutilized storefronts. Medium $ • Increase in the number of arts related businesses in Flint Empower local residents to reclaim vacant spaces utilizing community arts projects. Medium $ • City of Flint Planning & Development Underutilized Department • Increase in the number of art installations Spaces Partner with community artists to create temporary art installations in brown fields, along fences, overpasses, viaducts and other spaces in the City. Short $ • Business Community • Increase in the number of vacant spaces and underutilized buildings Work with partners to reclaim houses and convert to artist housing. Medium $$ reclaimed for artistic or cultural purposes Create community art centers throughout Flint by reusing closed schools and/or other abandoned buildings Long $$$ • Genessee County Land Bank Authority Select and install art in public places. Medium $ Create a plan to employ local artists in helping re-imagine and revitalize Flint’s 67 parks. Short $ • Community-Based Organizations Create guidelines and incentive programs to convert underutilized spaces for cultural uses. Short $ • Arts Council • City of Flint Planning & Development • Increase in the number of art installations in the City’s parks Revitalization Department Guidelines • City of Flint Department of Parks & • Increase in the number of proposals for revitalized public spaces Develop policy guidelines for the maintenance of future public art. Short $ Recreation • Genesee County Parks Department • Local Funders ARTS & CULTURE PLAN & CULTURE ARTS I mplementation Objective 2 Integrate arts and culture into Flint’s neighborhoods. Work with local artists and creative professionals to help neighborhoods express their local identity and increase citizen involvement and pride. Short $ • Community-Based Organizations Develop arts and cultural opportunities that are representative or our City’s demographics and cultural heritage. Short $ • Community Artists and Creative Professionals • Increase in the number of art installations in each of the City’s neighbor- Neighborhood • Arts Council hoods Involvement Ensure cultural events are appealing and accessible to, and inclusive of all residents of Flint. Short $ • Downtown Development Authority • Increase in number of culturally relevant art, events, and programming • Neighborhood Associations & Block Clubs Work with local partners to advocate for arts, facilities and programs throughout the City. Short $$ • Community-Based Organizations • Increase in the number of residents engaging in arts and cultural related Encourage private businesses to integrate arts and culture into their space and provide a platform for cultural activities. Short $ • Arts Council activities Neighborhood • Downtown Development Authority • Increase in the number of neighborhoods housing artists or artist Centers facilities Develop neighborhood based arts and cultural programming located in multi-purpose community centers. Medium $$ • Local Businesses • Increase in the number of art programs and facilities outside of the • Neighborhood Associations & Block Downtown and Cultural Center Clubs Objective 3 Expand access to and involvement in arts and cultural activities.

Work with major cultural institutions and the Arts Council to increase accessibility and provide arts and cultural programming for a wide range of interests. Short $ • Community-Based Organizations • Arts Council • Increase in the number of diverse arts and cultural programs and Build the capacity of grassroots, community-based providing arts and cultural programming for underserved populations. Short $ activities • Local Funders Access & • Increase in annual revenues of grassroots, community-based organiza- Involvement • City of Flint tions Increase involvement in arts and cultural activities by addressing other challenges to access such as safety in pub- Short $$ lic spaces, zoning and policy, effective communication, geographic distribution, and transportation. • Genesee County • increase in residents engaging in arts and cultural related activities • Mass Transit Authority

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PUBLIC COST DEPARTMENT / STRATEGY TIME FRAME ESTIMATE ORGANIZATION PROGRESS INDICATOR Objective 4 Increase youth participation in arts and cultural programming. Provide youth arts exhibit spaces with curated exhibitions featuring youth-only art. Short $ • Flint Community Schools Advocate for the creation of artistic and cultural venues for youth and their families. Medium $ • Local Colleges & Universities • Increase in the number of children participating in arts and cultural Encourage collaboration among the community’s many colleges, universities, and public schools. Medium $ • Community-Based Organizations activities and visits to art and cultural venues Arts Involvement Ensure cultural events are appealing and accessible to, and inclusive of all Flint residents, particularly youth. Long $ • Arts Council • Increase in the number of youth only artworks on display • Youth Serving Agencies Create internships and externships opportunities for aspiring, young artists. Short $ • Religious Institutions Invite regionally and nationally acclaimed artists to give lectures, demonstrations, and critiques with local artists. Short $$ • Flint Community Schools Forge partnerships between the education and arts to integrate arts into the S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education model. Medium $$ • Local Colleges & Universities I mplementation Assist Flint Community Schools in integrating arts and cultural education into the curriculum. Medium $ • Flint Public Library ARTS & CULTURE PLAN Work with Parent Teacher Organizations to encourage active parent involvement in the arts and their children’s artistic endeavors. Short $ • Children’s Museum • Increase in the number of visiting artists at local institutions Partner with community organizations to initiate arts and cultural programming for pre-K-12 during and after school. Short $$ • Sloan Museum and Longway Plan- • Increase in the number of arts related courses for grades K-12 etarium Arts Education • Increase in the number of before and after school arts programs • Flint Institute of Arts • Increase in the number of K-12 and higher education graduates choos- Create internship, externship, and apprenticeship opportunities for students to gain hands on experience with lo- • Flint Institute of Music ing arts related career paths. Short $ cal artists and creative professionals or with arts and cultural organizations. • Community-Based Organizations • Arts Council • Parent Teacher Organizations Objective 5 Develop a thriving local “creative economy” of artists, creative professionals, and cottage arts industries. Provide low and/or no-cost loans to creative enterprises. Short $ • ArtServe Michigan • Increase in the number of new art or cultural startup businesses Work with the Downtown Development Authority to develop a plan to support artist related businesses in Downtown. Short $ • Chamber of Commerce • Increase in the number of performances given by local artists Revise zoning and building codes to encourage artist live/work, incubator, and retail spaces. Short $$ • Local Funders • Increase in the number of art related employees Creative Business • Arts Council Enterprise • Decrease in industrial waste going into local landfills • Community-Based Organizations Create an online artist marketplace for opportunities to sell artwork. Short $$ • Increase in the number of low and no-cost loans given for creative • Downtown Development Authority enterprises • Planning & Development Department

Create incentives to encourage artists to move into areas seeking reinvestment. Short $ • ArtServe Michigan Work with local partners to provide low-cost portable equipment rental for mobile stage productions. Short $ • Chamber of Commerce • Increase in the number of new arts or cultural startup businesses • Local Funders • Increase in the number of artists utilizing low-cost health insurance Provide low-cost health insurance programs for self-employed artists. Short $ Artist Resources • Arts Council • Increase in the number of performances given by local artists Provide more opportunities for artists to exhibit and perform their work in public spaces and buildings. Medium $ • Community-Based Organizations • Increase in the number of art related employees Make City Hall Dome available for use by local artists and equip with equipment resources for artists. Medium $$ • Downtown Development Authority • Decrease in industrial waste going into local landfills Create an artist resource center to provide equipment, workspace, and general information to local artists. Medium $ • Planning & Development Department

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PUBLIC COST DEPARTMENT / STRATEGY TIME FRAME ESTIMATE ORGANIZATION PROGRESS INDICATOR Invite artists and creative professionals to perform or display artwork at public events and public meetings. Short $ • Neighborhood Associations & Block Encourage artists and creative professionals to serve on City Commissions, Neighborhood Associations, and Block Clubs. Short $ Clubs • Community-Based Organizations • Increase in the number of performances and displays by local artists Arts & Culture Appreciation • Arts Council • Increase in the percentage of artists serving on the City Commissions, Support networks to connect neighborhoods with community-wide arts and culture resources. Long $ Neighborhood Associations, and Block Clubs • City of Flint • Genesee County Objective 6 Brand Flint as a regional art hub and market Flint’s cultural offerings both internally (to residents) and externally (to tourists, prospective residents, and businesses). Improve and maintain a comprehensive and publicly available database of artist and art infrastructure including professional and informal artists, arts organizations, art galleries, Short $ and performing spaces. • Arts Council, Chamber of Commerce • Increase in the number of visitors to Flint’s arts and cultural facilities Information • Downtown Development Authority • Increase in the number of cataloged public art work Catalog current public art work in Flint. Short $ Access • Flint Public Library • Increase in number of people utilizing arts and cultural information webpages Establish a single portal of art and cultural information to better promote Flint’s rich arts and cultural assets. Short $ • ArtServe Michigan

Improve wayfinding and signage to create stronger access between the community cultural institutions. Short $ • Local Media, Chamber of Commerce Create a multi-media marketing campaign to promote the City’s major arts and cultural institutions. Medium $$ • Arts Council • Increase in the number of visitors to Flint’s arts and cultural facilities and Advertising & Share data and arts and cultural stories with local and national media to highlight the strength of Flint’s Arts and Culture Community. Short $ Marketing • Community-Based Organizations events Use the vibrant local arts scene as a selling point in all advertising. Short $ • Downtown Development Authority ARTS & CULTURE PLAN & CULTURE ARTS I mplementation Advertise City history and traditions through public art installments and local festivals. Short $ Objective 7 Develop a sustainable, long-term mechanism to implement the Arts & Culture Plan and create a stable funding source for arts and culture organizations and programming. Explore the development of a formal coordinating entity such as an Arts Authority to lead the implementation of the Arts & Culture Plan including fund raising. Short $ • Local Funders • Increase in the amount of outside funding secured for arts and cultural Identify ways to increase funding for the arts in Flint, which could include mechanisms such as a United Fund of the Arts or Percent for the Arts. Short $ • Arts Council related programs Work collaborative with the county on the possible establishment of a city/county arts millage and/or hotel/motel tax fund. Short $ • Community-Based Organizations • Increase in the revenue generated from fundraising events Funding Use an annual Community Arts Award event to highlight economic impact of arts and culture in the community. Short $ • City of Flint Planning & Development • Increase in the City revenue generated by arts or cultural related busi- Department Compile and publish data about the economic impact of arts and culture on the Flint economy. Short $ nesses and programs • Genesee County Objective 8 Use the arts and culture to encourage civic discourse and community problem solving. • Increase in number of applications to participate as “Artists in Resi- • Arts Council dence” Expand the “Artists in Residence” program. Medium $$ • Community Artists • Increase in the number of participants attending “Artists in Residence” Civic Engagement • ArtServe Michigan programs • Chamber of Commerce • Increase in number of public meetings involving artists to engage com- Invite artists to participate in designing community engagement activities and public meetings to facilitate positive dialogue. Short $ munity • City of Flint • Positive evaluation of public meetings

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