Carmel among first to receive State Cultural District Certification from Arts Commission

Carmel among first to receive …

State Cultural District Certification from Arts Commission

The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) voted to designate official cultural districts in three Indiana communities.

“I congratulate the Indiana Arts Commission for bringing to life the vision of House Enrolled Act 1017,” said Re. Eric, R-Bedford. Koch authored the 2008 legislation to establish the state designation.
Rep Koch said that Carmel, Bloomington, and Lafayette/West Lafayette have set the standard for future cultural district plans around the state. “As our nation continues to shift from an industrial manufacturing economy to one based on ideas, information, and experiences, the arts and culture are becoming important economic assets and can be an engine for economic growth in Hoosier communities large and small. Our state cultural district designation is an important tool within a policy portfolio designed to help us capitalize on our cultural resources in ways that encourage both economic prosperity and civic wellbeing,” said Rep. Koch.

The official state designation provides significant opportunity for marketing, promotion, and potentially leveraging resources through various partnerships.

“The City of Carmel is pleased to have our Arts and Design District chosen as one of Indiana’s official Cultural Districts,” said Ron Carter, President of the Carmel Redevelopment Commission and City Councilman. “The selection validates the vision of Mayor Brainard, the Carmel Redevelopment Commission and, the artists and galleries that have placed their faith in Carmel. I know that this designation will be of great benefit to Carmel and our Main Street area as we move to make the Arts and Design District one of the premier destination in the Midwest for arts and culture.”

http://carmelartsanddesign.com/newsevents/articles/2010/Carmel_IACannounce.pdf