Last week, local arts organizations came together to discuss how to advance the Northwest Arkansas cultural sector. From mainstays like Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, the Jones Center and the Walton Arts Center to rising stars like the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas, more than 40 attendees exemplified the diversity of our arts and culture community.

During this meeting, we had the opportunity to review the results of a needs study on Northwest Arkansas. The findings confirm the cultural sector in our home region is thriving. For a region of its size, Northwest Arkansas has a lot to offer its residents.

The study shows that families with young children are highly satisfied with current amenities. We discussed how the arrival of Crystal Bridges has elevated the level of appreciation for what art can do for a community.

And while many of our major institutions maintain extensive outreach to attract underserved audiences, areas for growth were outlined in the recommendations. We have the opportunity to work together as a region to develop offerings that appeal to young professionals, minorities and low-income populations.

A regional approach was at the core of many of the ideas discussed in the report. In the coming months, we’ll meet with partners to discuss concepts such as the development of a central organization that can nurture regional programs. This entity could also provide communications and professional assistance to the broader arts community.

The work of our local partners has been the driving force behind the growth and national recognition of our art scene. The next step is to leverage our regional momentum.