Today, we’re shining a light on Eugene’s thriving but underfunded arts scene with Kelly Johnson, Executive Director of the Arts & Business Alliance of Eugene. In this episode, we dive into the challenges, opportunities, and innovative solutions that define Eugene’s creative community. Kelly shares her insights on how businesses, individuals, and advocacy can drive the arts forward to ensure their place in Eugene’s future.

Topics Covered:

• Eugene’s Rich Art History: A look at the decades-long legacy of Eugene’s art organizations and the community’s role in maintaining this ecosystem for the next generation.

• Funding and Advocacy: Oregon ranks 41st in arts funding. What needs to change, and how can Eugene lead the way in statewide arts advocacy?

• COVID’s Impact on the Arts: Creative pivots and how things are looking post COVID.

• The Arts Economy: Surprising findings from the Arts and Economics study on how the arts directly impact Eugene’s economy, tourism, and quality of life.

• Overcoming Marketing Challenges: How fewer journalists and downtown’s reputation affect visibility, and what can be done to bring more people to Eugene’s arts events.

• Business Engagement: The benefits of businesses integrating arts into their culture, including improved creativity, team building, and mental health.

Kelly also shares actionable tips on how to get involved, whether through attending events like the First Friday Art Walk, advocating for state-level funding, or supporting local art organizations.

Listen in to learn how Eugene’s arts scene is evolving, the critical role it plays in the community, and how you can be part of shaping its future.

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Links from this Episode:Arts & Business Alliance of Eugene - https://artsbusinessalliance.org/Lane Arts Council - https://lanearts.org/category/first-friday/

First Friday Art Walks - https://www.downtowneugene.com/business/first-friday-artwalk/

Follow ABAE on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ABAEeugene/

Email us at podcast@eugenechamber.com

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