The California Arts Council (CAC) has convened an exciting new initiative to strengthen and expand the state’s creative economy. The Creative Economy Workgroup (CEW), established by the 2022 California budget, brings together a diverse group of leaders and experts to develop a strategic plan for California’s arts, culture, and creative industries.
On Friday, May 17, 2024, the CEW held its first public meeting at the historic Annenberg Beach House in Santa Monica. This landmark gathering marked the beginning of a year-long process to envision and plan for a vibrant, equitable creative economy that serves all Californians.
The CEW, chaired by CAC Executive Director Danielle Brazell, comprises 31 members representing a wide range of perspectives from across the state. Participants include state legislators, arts administrators, labor representatives, education leaders, and creative professionals from various disciplines.
The day-long session, facilitated by the Institute for the Future (IFTF), focused on defining the creative economy and identifying key drivers of change that will shape its future. Through collaborative exercises and discussions, the workgroup explored topics such as:
- Expanding the definition of the creative economy beyond traditional economic measures to include social, cultural, and community benefits
- The impact of technology, including AI and virtual reality, on creative processes and industries
- Mental health challenges and the role of arts in prevention and healing
- Changing audience behaviors and preferences in the digital age
- The need for equitable wages, benefits, and career pathways in creative industries
- The importance of arts education and workforce development programs
- Environmental sustainability and the creative sector’s role in addressing climate change
- Innovative funding models to support artists and creative businesses
The meeting also highlighted the need for inclusive representation and strategies to support underrepresented communities within the creative economy.
This initial gathering is the first of three planned public meetings. The next session, scheduled for October 15, 2024, will delve deeper into the implications of these drivers of change. The final meeting in January 2025 will focus on developing actionable strategies to support and grow California’s creative economy.
The CEW’s strategic plan, due to the Legislature by June 30, 2025, will provide a comprehensive roadmap for strengthening California’s position as a global leader in arts, culture, and creativity. It will address key areas such as financing models, educational programs, workforce development, and initiatives to support underserved communities and regions.
As the process unfolds, the CAC encourages public participation and input. For more information check out the CAC’s Creative Economy Workgroup page: https://arts.ca.gov/programs/creative-economy-workgroup/