Mississippi: Creative Economy

In collaboration with the Mississippi Development Authority, the Mississippi Arts Commission (MAC) recently unveiled the Mississippi’s Creative Economy website. Designed to educate business leaders, policymakers and the public about the importance of creativity to the state’s economy, the site contains resources about the role of the arts and culture in creating jobs and broadening economic opportunities. Highlighted on the site is Realizing the Economic Potential of Creativity in Mississippi, a new study of the literary, visual, performing and culinary arts as well as the state’s design and cultural heritage industries. In addition to documenting the economic impact of the state’s creative occupations and enterprises, the report contains policy and strategy recommendations designed to foster future growth. The study was rolled out in August at a statewide Mississippi Creative Economy Summit attended by more than 400 artists, economic development leaders and policymakers. Also available on the new website is a YouTube video of Governor Haley Barbour promoting the state’s creative industries. To find out more, contact MAC Executive Director Malcolm White.