Art has the power to transform a city

Can the arts revitalize New London? You bet.

Across the country and around the world, artists have moved into troubled or blighted neighborhoods and revitalized them with their artistry. Property values have increased, new businesses have moved in and the overall quality of life has improved immeasurably.

In Queens, N.Y., seven declining waterfront parks were restored by becoming locations for artistic events.

Art makes people proud to live, work and play where they do.

Commercial spaces such as restaurants, hotels and meeting places can be more or less interesting and attractive to consumers depending on the art they display (or lack of it) and people may decide what locations to spend time and money at based on the artistic ambience. Art attracts attention, generates publicity, stimulates public opinion and draws attention to a cause, location, idea or service. It helps nourish the integrity and status of individualism in a highly traditional society.

Reno, Nev., cashed in on this idea by creating an "art town" festival when casino profits were declining. It's now a permanent attraction.

A work of art reflects and often enhances the personality of the individual who owns it. It is not only visually appealing, but it also communicates the personality, abilities, creativity, inspiration, mind and sometimes the genius of the artist who created it.

Art encourages people to ask questions, to take brief moments out of their busy lives to reflect on meaningful ideas that have often been crowded out by life's more pressing concerns.

Art makes people think about ways life might one day be different. Art can stimulate the expression and exchange of thoughts, feelings and ideas among total strangers who would ordinarily not talk to one another.

Children are fascinated with art. It makes them ask questions, fantasize and imagine. Art teaches children to be creative and have fun with life.

Free after-school art programs are essential in developing a wider appreciation of the arts. Having children working alongside established, local artists fosters neighborhood pride and community building.

Art is environmentally friendly, energy efficient and easy to maintain. It does not increase global warming, use fossil fuels, need regular tune-ups, or make any noise.

Art beautifies and personalizes environments. Art can transform businesses and private homes into personal museums.

Art brought new life to the failing economy of Grand Rapids, Mich., through an effort called "Art Rize."

In Mills, Minn., with a population of just 1,000, invested $35,000 in transforming a vacant downtown building into an arts and culture center. Five years later, 17 new businesses employing 200 people have opened in the area.

There are numerous examples. Baltimore's "Artscape" project generated $26 million for the local economy in 2009. And murals chronicling the history of Needles, Calif. have increased tourism in the village along Old Route 66.

Art can do the same for New London by using available resources to better incorporate art into public life. Public parks and city properties can provide space for temporary art installations, art lessons, dance classes, and rehearsal and performance space.

These venues allow people to mix freely and are less intimidating than theaters and museums and are often free. Bringing together existing cultural organizations can make this happen.

Lastly, creating art projects employs talented artists and allows them to call New London home.

Art makes people proud to live, work and play where they do. Never underestimate the power of art to make life better.

The author is an artist and board member of Hygienic Arts Inc.