(The Center Square) – The New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs announced this week that New Mexico’s nonprofit arts and culture industry generated $740.9 million in economic activity in 2022, according to the Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 (AEP6), a study conducted by Americans for the Arts.
That money – $267.5 million spent by nonprofit arts and culture organizations and $473.4 million spent by their audiences – supported 9,381 jobs and generated $106.1 million in local, state and federal government revenue, according to the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs.
“Our vibrant arts and culture scene is a testament to New Mexico’s uniqueness, attracting visitors and dollars from across the nation and the world,” New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham said. “The nonprofit arts are a powerful engine driving New Mexico’s economic prosperity, delivering $740 million in the last year.”
The organization that conducted the study lobbies states and the federal government for increased spending on the arts.
“Investing in the nonprofit arts bolsters New Mexico’s economy, fostering a genuine sense of pride and community among residents and visitors alike.” New Mexico State Cultural Affairs Cabinet Secretary Debra Garcia y Griego said. “It also nurtures our artistic communities, showcasing the respect and confidence people have in the endeavors taking place here.”
Although the Department called the study “groundbreaking,” it was the sixth of its kind done by Americans for the Arts.
The Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 study found that, nationally, America’s nonprofit arts and culture sector is a $151.7 billion industry. The study claims this industry supports 2.6 million jobs and generates $29.1 billion in tax revenue.
“Arts and culture organizations have a powerful ability to attract and hold dollars in the community longer. They employ people locally, purchase goods and services from nearby businesses, and produce the authentic cultural experiences that are magnets for visitors, tourists, and new residents,” Nolen V. Bivens, president and CEO of Americans for the Arts said. “When we invest in nonprofit arts and culture, we strengthen our economy and build more livable communities.”
The study differs from previous studies in that it looks beyond economic and financial data. It includes what it calls social impact and how arts and culture impact the well-being of communities and their residents, according to the release.
One can view the full report here.
