At MACo’s Summer Conference, an expert panel shared how to provide unique local experiences by connecting arts and tourism for both residents and visitors.  These programs offer immersive encounters to all that attend and provides for economic revitalization and community pride.  

The speaker panel included:

• Steven Skerritt-Davis, Executive Director, Maryland State Arts Council
• Marie Nuthall, Plein Air Easton Coordinator, Avalon Foundation
• Kristen Pironis, Executive Director, Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County
• Kara Norman, Executive Director, Downtown Frederick Partnership

Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC) Executive Director,  Steven Skerritt-Davis discussed the grant opportunities that support arts organizations and programs throughout Maryland.  MSAC provides funding to more than 300 grantee organizations that support over 14,000 jobs and create approximately $1.2 billion in total economic activity within Maryland.

The Avalon Foundation, Plein Air Easton Coordinator, Marie Nuthall provided details about the meaningful experiences for the community and for visitors to Easton. This event attracts up to 8,000 spectators a year and has assisted artists to sell over $500,000 in art works.

Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County Executive Director. Kristen Pironis shared information on signature robust art events in Annapolis and Anne Arundel County.  Events include the Annapolis Songwriters Festival, Renaissance Festival and the Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival providing visitors diverse art and culture experiences.

Downtown Frederick Partnership Executive Director, Kara Norman offered insight into how the organization works to “enhance, promote and preserve Downtown Frederick’s vitality, livability and diversity.” One of the events held is Alive @ Five, a happy hour fundraiser.  In 2023, more than 17,000 people attended this event with more than $250,000 raised to be reinvested into the downtown Frederick community.

Counties are connecting the arts and tourism as a way to drive economic revitalization and community pride.

Session Title: Arts and Opportunity: Amplifying Tourism and Driving Growth

Description: Today’s travelers seek more than a selfie or a plastic souvenir while sightseeing; they crave meaningful experiences. The arts play a pivotal role in delivering experiences that offer rich, immersive encounters for both residents and visitors alike. Music festivals, murals, and outdoor painting competitions are just some of the ways counties are connecting arts and tourism to entice visitors. Speakers will discuss how to provide unique local experiences, attract tourism, and spur economic revitalization and community pride.

Moderator: The Honorable Johnny Ray Salling, MD State Senate

The session was on August 15 at the Roland Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, Maryland.