Taking a new pride in our shared arts legacy
By Pat Boyd, Executive Director, South Dakotans for the Arts
 

This is a summer to remember, a time when we had better take a look around, and take new pride in our communities and quality of life. A record-breaking winter was made more grueling by the real possibility that we might lose the funding that is the bedrock of local arts and arts education. We saved it by making the case that we need the arts now more than ever.  

During our winter advocacy, we asked people all over the state to speak up about what public funding of the arts means in their communities and schools. They invariably pointed fingers inward, toward their hearts-- families, schools, libraries, parks and community centers. A little money goes a long way when your main ingredients are grace and beauty, they said. We will show you how. So in this summer arts season we are opening our arms in welcome as we share music, dance, comedy, tragedy, traditions, colors and light, and good things to eat and drink. Come one, come all, and create a summer that is only possible right here, right now in real time, in real good time, through the lively arts. 

Now arts advocates, you know the economy is no picnic, and the arts are not a pretense – we are not going to do a little dance of celebration now and make it all go away. Quite the contrary, this is the time to appreciate what is real, and what is of value that may not be expensive in time or money. We also know that many in our communities are investing tremendous time and energy in preparing and creating experiences for the enjoyment of others. These people are usually grouped in some fashion – festivals, galleries, orchestras, theatre groups, powwows – we call them community arts groups and organize them into the Community Arts Network of South Dakota. There are more than 100 active arts organizations across the state in communities of every size.

These organizations and their individual members saved the South Dakota Arts Council and the arts for all of us this winter. They pointed inward, so that the Governor and Legislature would know that public arts are very personal. Now that their arms are open in welcome, do not let them down. Join as many of these organizations as you can. Their memberships and admissions are the best bargains you will ever find. Most of what they do for us is provided for free or at little charge, because the arts are for, from and about everyone. But if you find yourself enjoying a local event, take the next step toward participation and get your name on the membership list. Your donation, small or large, will be critical to their continuation – and their continuation is critical to your community.  

There is poignancy in our enjoyment of the arts this summer, the kind of appreciation that comes with close calls, near losses of the beloved. Let it bring growth and abundance, let it bring the family together and welcome friends. If you have time or talent to share, you will find other rewarding ways to invest. The arts are a lively enterprise, and thanks to the warm and open hearts of so many, they are truly alive in South Dakota. Support your local artists and build your summer around all that grace and beauty – it will be a summer to remember.