Indiana Communities Encouraged to Confirm Interest in Cultural District Application

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) announced today the deadline is approaching for Indiana communities to submit letters of intent to apply for cultural district certification.

By definition, a cultural district is a well-recognized, labeled, mixed-use area of a community, in which high concentrations of cultural assets serve as the anchor. Indiana Statewide Cultural Districts promote the exploration of and participation in the arts and humanities through cultural experiences that are unique to our communities. Indiana Statewide Cultural Districts support community life and economic vitality.

 "Official state certification provides a community with opportunities to demonstrate how the arts can be incorporated into economic and community development efforts," said IAC Executive Director Lewis C. Ricci.

Communities interested in applying for cultural district certification must submit a letter of intent to the IAC by the close of business Wednesday, June 30, 2010. Letters of intent should be sent to the Indiana Arts Commission, attention Kristina Davis-Smith, 100 N. Senate Ave., Room N505, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204. The deadline for application is August 11, 2010.

Currently there is no funding associated with Statewide Cultural District designation. Benefits of the program include increased tourism marketing and economic activities that come with being part of a branded program with a statewide emphasis, a potential collaboration with the Indiana Artisan program, and the opportunity for Statewide Cultural Districts to apply for highway signage. 

Early this year, the IAC announced certification of the first three State Cultural Districts including Bloomington Entertainment and Arts District; Carmel Art and Design District; and Tippecanoe Arts and Cultural District.

Once a cultural district receives Statewide Cultural District designation, that designation will last for the duration of the program unless the cultural district fails to comply with annual reporting requirements or the IAC Board of Commissioners determines the cultural district to no longer be viable for the community. Acceptance into the program signifies an ongoing commitment to the development and sustainability of the cultural district.

On behalf of the people of Indiana, the Indiana Arts Commission advocates engagement with the arts to enrich the quality of individual and community life.