Representatives from three major Owensboro arts organizations traveled to the Capitol on Thursday for Arts Day in Frankfort, an annual advocacy event hosted by Kentuckians for the Arts.
Delegates from the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art, Owensboro Dance Theatre, and the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum spent the day meeting with lawmakers to share their impact stories and highlight the role the arts play in quality of life, cultural tourism, and the economy.
Local representatives met with State Representative Suzanne Miles, Representative D.J. Johnson, Representative Scott Lewis, and State Senator Gary Boswell.
“Not only do the arts contribute to the quality of life for our citizens, the arts contribute substantially as economic engines of our communities,” Miles said. “It’s an opportunity for the arts communities to get together and share ideas. And it’s an opportunity to meet with their legislators to discuss their future plans and projects.”
Jason Hayden, Executive Director of the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art, said Arts Day offers a chance for connection and visibility.
“We’re grateful for the opportunity to have somebody listen and tell our story to,” Hayden said. “That story is that the arts have a significant cultural impact, a significant community health impact, and a significant financial impact. Cultural tourism is important to the region — and the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art is the cultural linchpin of the region.”
Hayden said the museum, which will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year, is the largest fine art museum in western Kentucky. He praised legislators for taking time to meet with local leaders and said the annual event helps raise awareness about the needs of the arts community.
“It was a very pleasant and educational experience,” he said. “We got to meet with our partners in the Kentucky Arts Council and also Kentuckians for the Arts — both very important organizations.”
Kim Johnson, representing Owensboro Dance Theatre, said the day was about partnership and showing appreciation.
“We wanted to show the legislators how we are reaching the community through dance with Owensboro Dance Theatre,” she said. “It’s about collaboration and maximizing the dollars that come in.”
Adam Engelhardt with the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum said the Kentucky Arts Council plays an important role in preserving and promoting Kentucky’s signature music style.
“Being present at the Kentucky Arts Day shows we appreciate and support the KAC and all the work they do for Kentucky arts,” Engelhardt said. “It’s a great opportunity to visit with our state senators and representatives all in the same day. The future looks bright, and I am encouraged by their continued support.”
