The Power Of Art In Transforming Communities

Art is a universal language that engages us to reflect, learn and be inspired by its presence in whatever form. Therefore, it is not surprising that art universally has been a catalyst for the revitalization of downtown districts, neighborhoods, and commercial corridors. There are tons of examples of how art in any form has contributed to transforming abandoned buildings, parcels, and street corridors into vibrant sites that attract many of us to be present or become part of its transformation. But art can also be a gentrifier and displace both longtime residents and businesses from remaining in these communities. The question here: How can art be part of a revitalization strategy without entirely changing the fabric of a community that leads to its displacement? I’d like to share a model of how it’s being done in a historically Black city in Miami Dade, Florida that I have the pleasure of working with for the last 14 years…

But First, What Is Creative Place-Making and its Relationship to Art

The purpose of creative place-making is to “create” places of destination that increase the vibrancy and revitalization of communities, mostly through art, cultural events, and the development of unique spaces to visit. They foster both a sense of community but also a place for both residents and commerce to…