History & Economic Impact

Winston-Salem, at the center of Forsyth County, is the City of the Arts. Our area has a history that is steeped in the arts like few others. We boast the first formally established Arts Council in the country. Forsyth County is home to arts and cultural organizations that represent all arts disciplines and train the best up-and-coming talent in the country. While celebrating the work of local talent, national talent comes to our area as part of touring shows, international film festivals, concerts by renowned musicians and theatre ensembles unlike any other in the world.

In the past seven years, the arts industry in Forsyth County has grown significantly, from a $77 million industry in 2000 to a $104 million industry today. More than 3,800 full-time equivalent jobs have been created in the arts, up from 2,700 in 2000.

The arts are vital to our economy. More than two million people attended arts and cultural events last year. Our arts industry generates $10 million in local and state government revenue and contributes $56 million in annual spending. Our hotels, retail operations and restaurants earn an additional $48 million annually from arts and culture patrons. Our local corporations also are able to recruit and retain educated, high-caliber employees because arts and culture make our area a desirable place to live and raise families.

Now is the time to embark upon a significant initiative that will improve our arts facilities to better meet the needs of our community and to market our city as an arts and cultural destination.