The Maricopa metropolitan region of Arizona is just beginning to realize the need to recognize and support arts and culture as an important contributor to a knowledge economy. Arts and culture have an economic importance, the tools to bring about a sense of place, and can positively impact workforce development, education, and community revitalization. As a result, arts and culture both enrich residents quality of life and give places meaning, identity, and economic opportunity.

Prepared for the Maricopa Regional Task Force on Arts and Culture, this report presents statistical data and analysis that gives a sense of Maricopa Countys arts and culture resources and challenges in the areas of performing, literary, and visual arts; history and preservation; science and nature; and landmarks and events. It also offers comparison data of the Maricopa region with nine benchmark regions (Atlanta, Austin, Charlotte, Denver, Indianapolis, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Diego, and Seattle) to provide a deeper understanding of the characteristics that affect arts and culture.

[The report is marked Draftsince the task force had not yet completed its work at the time of publication.]

This report provides statistical data and analysis of resources and challenges impacting the arts and cultural sector in Maricopa County, Arizona along with comparative data of nine other benchmark regions to aid in understanding characteristics that affect arts and culture.