Regional Arts Commission Conducting STL Artist Census

As part of its mission to promote creative placemaking in St. Louis – where the arts are an integral part of shaping the vitality, economy and character of our region – the (RAC) is undertaking “Artists Count,” the first census of artists working in the St. Louis area. 

The census, which runs through early July, will survey thousands of area artists and creatives including writers, dancers, poets, filmmakers, musicians, photographers, graphic designers, actors, singers, composers, architects, performance artists, crafters, educators, etc.

“Anyone who considers himself or herself an artist – whether they earn their living solely from their art or also work part-time at other jobs – should respond to the survey,” said Jill McGuire, executive director of RAC. 

The anonymous survey is available at www.artistscount.com. All those responding by May 14 will be entered into a drawing for an iPad.

Artists will be asked a variety of questions to get a full understanding about their workspace, living space, their financial viability as artists and what they need to thrive in St. Louis.

“In St. Louis, cultural institutions have a high profile and their importance to the community and the economy is well documented," said McGuire. "The findings from this study will not only help RAC document artists’ valuable contributions but also create new policies for artist funding.”

This census will provide a wider understanding of the creative ecosystem in St. Louis, and the information gathered will help guide RAC in its support of artists, especially helping them find affordable living and working space.

“RAC will be a catalyst in establishing partnerships with real estate developers and government officials to integrate artist needs with community redevelopment needs," said McGuire. "The outcome should result in sustainable, creative communities for everyone.”

The survey is also available in printed form by contacting RAC at 314-863-5811 or artistscount@stlrac.org

Artists Count is being executed by William Cleveland, principal of the Center for the Study of Art and Community and Dr. Patricia Shifferd, CSA&C research associate.  Artists Count is funded by a grant from the Kresge Foundation.

Regional Arts Commission

The Regional Arts Commission (RAC) is a cultural catalyst in the St. Louis area, providing financial, technical, promotional and other support for arts organizations. Since 1985, RAC has awarded more than 5,600 grants totaling more than $73 million, funded by a portion of the hotel/motel room sales tax.

In 2011, RAC awarded more than $2.68 million for 177 grants to support nonprofit arts and cultural organizations, consortiums and programs in the St. Louis area in the annual grants round.