By James Tibbets, Pendletonian Times
PENDLETON, Oregon – The Pendleton Arts Commission and Americans for the Arts will present the findings of a 2023 economic study at the Pendleton Center for the Arts on Wednesday, September 18, 2024. The presentation will be about the impact of arts and culture spending on the economy.
The speaker will be Randy Cohen, who is the vice president of research for Americans for the Arts. Cohen is currently visiting nine cities in Eastern Oregon to unveil the findings of the Arts and Economic Prosperity 6 study, which was conducted in 2023. The AEP6 study sought to gather comprehensive data on the effects of arts and culture to Oregon’s economy. Pendleton was one of 373 Oregon communities that participated in the study.
The AEP6 Study showed that the nonprofit arts and culture industry in Pendleton generated $14.6 million. The nonprofit arts and culture industry supported 161 jobs, provided $5.9 million in personal income to residents of Pendleton and generated $1.9 million in tax revenue. Cohen’s presentation will expand upon this information.
The presentation begins at 2 pm. Attendees will be able to obtain full copies of the study as well as participate in a discussion about how the data can support continued investment in local arts and culture.
Refreshments will be served and the event is open to the public.