Utah Job Growth in the Creative Industry
The Utah creative industry grew 11% in 2018, putting Utah in 3rd place for the fastest growth rate in the country. This statistic is incredible! Not only is Utah the 3rd fastest growing state for arts and culture, it also ranks first in live arts participation per capita. These numbers can all be attributed to the healthy, vibrant and diverse cultural scene Utah has cultivated. The Utah Cultural Alliance collected data and found that Utah’s cultural sector employs a little under 112 thousand Utans a year, while also generating $4 billion in earnings.
Crystal Young-Otterstrom, the Executive Director of Utah Cultural Alliance, remarked that “It’s because we have this history of hard work and love of the arts and humanities that the cultural sector has an impact in Utah. People recognize the immense benefits of cultural participation and they are willing to work to make it happen.”
Events throughout Utah, like the Moab Music Festival, Escalante Canyons Art Festival, and the Sundance Film Festival contribute to the enhanced experience for local, national and international tourists. The Utah Cultural Alliance reports that in 2018 the Sundance Film Festival welcomed 1,000 International visitors and 45,000 out of state visitors. Out of those visitors combined, 20% had never visited Utah.
Scott Beck, CEO of Visit Salt Lake commented on tourism within Utah, stating “Cultural Tourism protects natural and cultural resources, which improve the quality of life for residents and travelers who participate in the services and attractions of our local destination.”
On June 20th, the Utah Cultural Alliance will release its 2018 State of Utah Culture report. Utah Cultural Alliance will host a live Facebook event, in which they walk viewers through the details and findings of the report. They will also report on the impact the cultural sector has on Utah’s economy. They will highlight statistics such as Utah County having 24,204 creative occupations and bringing in $1.2 billion in creative industry earnings and Sanpete County bringing in $14.8 million.
Utah offers a space for diversity and allows people to be creative and expressive in an environment that welcomes everyone. Check the PCSC Arts Council calendar for art and culture events that can be found around Park City and Summit County. Also be sure to catch the Facebook live event hosted by the Utah Cultural Alliance!