A Model for Rebirth: The Economic Revitalization of New Orleans through Culture

Brown, Maggie

Savannah, Ga. : Savannah College of Art and Design

2012-05

Thesis (M.A.) -- Arts Administration

Savannah College of Art and Design -- Department of Arts Administration

Includes bibliographical references (p.69-72).

Following the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, New Orleans, Louisiana began the process of rebuilding, both culturally and economically. Artists from multiple backgrounds came together in the aftermath of Katrina to form grassroots art organizations that maintained a definite objective to redevelop the economy through the production, distribution, and sale of art and music. The mass production of artwork from local artists and subsequent exhibitions that emerged during the rebuilding process highlights the critical need to connect artistic development to economic planning within communities. Research supports that promoting the development of cultural activities in communities aids in generating tax revenue, providing jobs, and attracting investments.

This thesis explores community and state strategies in economic revitalization efforts by way of culture and creative industries. The thesis explores the implementation and processes of cultural development initiatives in New Orleans as a case study. Findings are based on in-depth comparative analysis of economic and cultural development plans in New Orleans. The analysis poses that economic revitalization is to be an on-going process that must involve strong leadership, appropriate funding, and a unified vision. Using New Orleans as a model, the researcher identifies key elements that are essential components of long-term cultural development planning to be used as framework for cities with culturally based economies that may lack cultural economic development strategies.

CHAIR: Corporandy, Sarah

Cannon, Thomas

Concepcion, Beth

English

Arts Administration

Text

PDF : 87 p. : ill

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