Governor Receives National Award for State Arts Leadership
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Larry Hogan and First Lady Yumi Hogan today attended Maryland Arts Day, which is held yearly at St. John’s College in Annapolis. Organized by Maryland Citizens for the Arts (MCA), Maryland Arts Day is an opportunity for arts advocates to meet with state officials about the critical role of the arts in supporting Maryland’s culture and economy.
During the event, the governor received the 2018 National Award for State Arts Leadership which was presented by Americans for the Arts and the United States Conference of Mayors.
“The arts play a vital role in Maryland, including educating and encouraging creativity in our children, helping to maintain our quality of life, and contributing to our economy,” said Governor Hogan. “The First Lady and I have a deep connection to the arts and remain committed to promoting the arts in our state. I am honored to receive this award.”
Since taking office, Governor Hogan has been a strong supporter of the arts. In Maryland, the arts sector is a $1.32 billion industry, which includes artists and art organizations. The governor has proposed record funding of $21.7 million in FY 2019 for the Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC), which provides grants, technical assistance, and other support services, for the arts.
“As an artist and teacher, I understand how important the arts are in our daily lives,” said the First Lady. “Art gives all of us a way to communicate with each other and has the ability to heal. I am grateful for all of our hard working supporters and volunteers who raise awareness and advocate for the arts in Maryland. We need to continue to support our local museums, art organizations, and our local artists to give them the ability to showcase their talents and ensure this community continues to thrive.”
The arts are a powerful economic engine in Maryland, accounting for more than 16,000 full-time jobs that generate $457 million in salaries, according to an FY 2016 MSAC economic impact report. Spending by the 304 Maryland arts organizations supported by MSAC generated $56 million in state and local tax revenue, and returned $3.83 in total economic activity for every dollar invested by the state in the arts.
During FY 2017, through its flagship Grants for Organizations and Community Arts Development Programs, MSAC awarded operating grants totaling nearly $17 million to non-profit organizations across the state, including grants to the local arts councils. In addition, MSAC’s Arts in Education Program reached more than 120,000 students through performances and workshops in 559 Maryland schools.
Images courtesy of the Executive Office of the Governor of Maryland