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Art and Culture Commission 1 2 <br />Summary <br />According to all providing feedback to staff on the proposed new Arts and Culture Commission, this is a needed action that <br />is important to Santa Ana. The interview meetings with individuals and groups representing art and culture activities and <br />programs began on November and will continue until the Commission is established and it has its first meeting. <br />Business, artists, art professionals, cultural activists, and academic art specialist consistently commented that Santa Ana is <br />a unique place that stands apart in the region and an ideal city for thriving and dynamic art and culture expressions. The <br />City's rich history, diversity, architecture, location, and urban block grid system offers a setting that promises art and <br />culture experience to blosom even further and reach noteworthy levels similarto the best art and culture towns in the <br />nation. A Commission to provide leadership in art and culture is key according to most interviewed. Most commented that <br />the Commission should represent all the arts and champion all cultures. Because this tall order, it was suggested by many <br />for specialty advisory committees be established as needed to help the Commission navigate issues and projects that <br />require a wider perspective and expert feedback. <br />A common theme in all conversations was that arts and culture is good for business. Many thought that art and culture is <br />a key reason folks, both residents and visitors, come together in Santa Ana to enjoy a creative environment that is inclusive <br />and open for creative expression. Interviewees felt that policy affecting key components such as buildings, businesses, and <br />housing is important in the cultivation of arts and culture in the community and good forthe local economy. The return on <br />investment in arts and culture according to all interviewed will be great. <br />All thoughtthat asthe Commission sets to its missiton to champion the arts and culture in town, that Santa Ana's art and <br />culture history should be considered to best evaluate and supportthe current level of creative activity. Anchoring the <br />Commission's perspective on this historical perspective will help setthe best course for developing a thriving future, <br />vibrant in art and cultural performances and experessions. <br />The Santa Ana canvas is rich with history, people, and architecture. This came out in all conversations with those <br />interviewed. Coming up with creative ways to fund these activities was also an important theme that emerged during the <br />outreach meetings. Affordable housing, grants for public art projects and grantsto support emerging artists was <br />mentioned several times. Ongoing sustainable funding mechanisms to support art and culture activities in town is <br />something many felt need to be established. <br />All interviewed thought arts and culture needs to be a key priority area of focus. All believed that art and culture, while not <br />in the category of basic core food, shelter, and safety needs, is what will make Santa Ana into a greater and greater city. All <br />thought arts and culture, if nurtured in the right way, will contribute exponentiallyto the quality of life in Santa Ana. <br />50A -12 <br />