arts & business council

MetLife National Arts Forums Series

Cultural Development Corporation of Central OK; Arts Council of OKC; Allied Arts Foundation; Association of Emerging Professionals
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

OKC Culture 2015
09/12/2005

Moderator: Possibilities, Inc.

Panelists:

• Elizabeth Eickman, former Executive Director, Arts Council of OKC
• Roy Williams, President, Gr. OKC Chamber of Commerce
• James Pickel, President, Cultural Development Corporation

The cultural landscape of Oklahoma City has changed dramatically during the past five years, particularly in the heart of the city. The Civic Center Music Hall was completely renovated. A new Oklahoma City Museum of Art was built downtown, less than a block from the new central Metropolitan Library. Both of these institutions have been very successful in developing new audiences for programs such as art films, lectures, and alternative performances. Downtown housing has become a viable option again. Trolleys are available to tie all of these new and revitalized venues together. 

Searching for next steps, the Greater OKC Chamber of Commerce identified members of a variety of ethnic cultures and young business professionals who were willing to participate in community planning. This group of young professionals was concerned about OKC’s self-image and sought to be more inclusive of the diverse communities. They suggested several new theme museums which would focus on Oklahoma’s heritage. Top priority should be given to some of the ongoing needs within the arts community, including the need for a central repository of arts event information, such as a website, as well as better target marketing for specific activities. The group also stressed the importance of urban development, including a plan for an Arts District and more green spaces. They addressed the need for arts education at all ages, and they cited the need for more affordable events and transportation options for people planning to attend arts events.

One of the most important things the panelists learned from this session is the fact that current promotional and informational efforts by arts groups are not reaching the under-30 demographic set. As a result, two of the young business leaders from this group have been added to the Steering Committee for the new OKC Cultural Plan, and additional opportunities for input and involvement will be offered all forum participants as the process unfolds. As most of the major corporations in Oklahoma City, as well as many small businesses, were represented through these attendees, the potential for strengthening the arts community’s ties to these businesses is great. 

Oklahoma City has the dubious distinction of being the largest city in the United States without public funding for the arts. Up until now, the arts have survived, and currently are thriving, primarily through the generosity and interest of the private sector. One probable strategy for increasing funding will be to leverage new public arts support by demonstrating the historic, ongoing, consistent support from the business community. New coordination and collaboration in programs is overdue. By bringing more groups to the table, like today, we believe this can be accomplished in a much more comprehensive manner.