SMU DataArts, the National Center for Arts Research at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, recently released their fifth annual Arts Vibrancy Index Report, which ranks more than 900 communities across the nation, examining the level of supply, demand, and government support for the arts.
Based on their research, Summit Park, Utah is ranked the #2 most arts-vibrant small-sized community in America. While their rankings are found on per capita data, the report also includes a short description of what makes each community unique – highlighting arts providers and significant programs/initiatives.
From the report: “The Summit Park MSA includes all of Summit County, home to Park City and its three ski resorts. At certain times of the year, the tourist population of Park City greatly exceeds the number of permanent residents, making the availability of the arts high on a per capita basis. Additionally, the city is home to the Sundance Film Festival (the United States’ largest independent film festival), the Sundance Institute, Park City Institute, Park City Chamber Music Society, Park City Arts & Music Conservatory, Egyptian Theatre, Park City Film, and the Deer Valley Music Festival (the Utah Symphony/Utah Opera’s summer home). Park City Summit County Arts Council has incubated numerous arts and culture organizations, built audiences for established and emerging artists, and helped promote the area as a world-class cultural tourist destination. It produces annual programs such as the Art Elevated holiday gift market, Summit Arts Showcase, and County Fair Fine Arts exhibit and works in partnership with other nonprofits to connect creative content to the community. The area is ranked 9th on overall Arts Providers and in the top 1% on independent artists (7th) and on arts, culture, and entertainment firms per capita (4th). Furthermore, Summit Park ranks 26th and 12th in the U.S. on Arts Dollars and Government Support, respectively.”
Kudos to Summit Park!