Support for arts funding takes a step forward

By any measure, Florida’s funding for arts and culture is embarrassing. Last spring, state leaders gutted the grants budget for the arts from $25 million down to a paltry $2.6 million.

The recent Art of Advocacy summit in Largo was a significant local step toward trying to fix the problem in the upcoming legislative session. A panel of legislators and lobbyists gave Pinellas County arts leaders tips for building support for funding.

And most important, a steering committee of arts leaders was formed to work toward launching a countywide initiative to advocate for arts funding – something that’s sorely needed.

– Kyle Parks, B2 Communications