Our Approach
We believe communities of all sizes can be transformed into more culturally vibrant and economically prosperous places through projects that build upon their authentic character and local assets connected to arts, culture, heritage and the broader creative sector.
Through our Creative Community Development area, the Iowa Arts Council emphasizes:
- Artist-Centered Approaches
- Cross-Sector and Regional Partnerships
- Place and Asset-Based Strategies
Creative Places Pathway
Creative community development and placemaking starts with forming clear goals.
The Iowa Arts Council offers the Creative Places Pathway to help communities define their goals and identify the creative assets, partners, and resources to accomplish them. For example:
- Are you looking to showcase your community’s unique creative or cultural identity and civic pride? Murals are one potential approach, especially when they include opportunities for community participation and engagement.
- Is your community looking to develop a thriving downtown or district? Arts programming can help transform and activate underutilized public spaces.
- Is your community looking to enhance the quality of life to attract and retain residents? Launching or expanding arts or cultural events that build social connections may be a good first step.
First-time applicants and communities with multiple projects are especially encouraged to start with the Pathway.
Testimonial
Monticello Main Street
We launched a mural project with a clear vision: to bring a world-class piece of art to downtown Monticello. The Iowa Arts Council’s support enabled us to engage a highly skilled and experienced muralist, and any technical questions I had were met with prompt and positive responses. Overall, the grant process was streamlined, informative, and incredibly supportive.
What is Creative Community Development?
At its best, creative community development leverages local creative assets – including your artists, arts and culture attractions, partners and resources - to advance your community’s long-term vision and goals.
At the same time, creative community development seeks to foster a sustainable, healthy creative ecosystem where artists and cultural organizations can thrive and contribute to growing and economically prosperous communities.
What is Creative Placemaking?
“Creative placemaking” is a proven approach to revitalizing communities by putting the arts, culture and heritage at the center of community and economic development efforts.
In practice, successful creative placemaking can include the development of a mix of assets and public spaces connected to cultural, recreational, and entertainment uses. A great public space cannot be measured by its physical attributes alone; it must also serve people.
Learn more: Project for Public Spaces – What is Placemaking?
Public Art
Resources including tools artists and communities can use to explore and successfully develop public art in Iowa.
