The impact of the arts on Northern Ireland's social and economic regeneration has been described in a comprehensive new publication by the Arts Council.
The Digest of Arts Statistics captures data on consumption, employment, public expenditure and income generated by the arts sector.
Arts Council Director of Strategic Development Nick Livingston explained the relevance of the publication in light of the Spending Review:
"A key priority for government centres on growing a dynamic, innovative economy. This represents a considerable challenge given the current economic downturn but it also places an onus on public bodies to produce the evidence of key outputs and outcomes.
In pursuit of this objective we have brought together the Digest of Arts Statistics: a single source compendium that paints the regional picture through data on the cultural and creative sector and its importance to the economy as a whole. The aim of the Digest to provide a reliable source of data reflecting current arts based activities that provides concrete evidence not only of the significant contribution the arts are making to one of government's key priority areas but also describes the wider impacts of the arts within society."
One aspect of the cultural landscape described in the Digest is the value of business investment in the arts and the partnerships that have connected the commercial and cultural worlds. Closer private and public partnerships are increasingly important during the economic downturn.
Nick Livingston continued: "The arts and business worlds are increasingly recognising the benefits of working together. Strengthening this partnership is particularly important in the current financial climate. However, it is vitally important that government maintains its investment because this provides the anchor that enables arts organisations to lever private sector investment."Carson-McDowell Solicitors is one local business which has worked hard to forge meaningful links with the arts community.
Michael Johnston, Partner, Carson McDowell, commented: "Investing in a vibrant arts and cultural sector for Northern Ireland is important as there is now a clear understanding of how a developed arts and culture sector can transform a modern society through the economic, social and cultural rewards which it delivers."
He added: "Carson McDowell has benefited significantly from our involvement with the arts in terms of people development, networking and engaging with society in a positive way. We have had the benefit of seeing the tangible outcomes from engaging with creative and entrepreneurial people and, as a result, the firm values the role an enriched arts and culture infrastructure has to play in developing a diverse and stable economy."