Changing Directions

After consulting with Leslie my path has shifted from trying to research a question as broad as an expressway with massive interchanges that spin off into countless directions, to a nice little boulevard that that will merge into a lane that leads to the desired destination.

Because I changed directions, my research is limited at this time, yet growing as we speak. It’s amazing how a definite research question will set the stage to focused research. The main problem I face now is the lack of research available on my topic. I guess that is a good thing, and just means I have to dig a little harder for results.

Here is my revised research question and a list of possible sub-questions (for both interview and research) that would be included in my study.

What are some potential ways that a community arts council in Homer could support a town revitalization?

Because the arts council in Homer is in the process of being developed my research focuses on a local arts council that played an important role in revitalizing their town.

Sub-questions:

· What tools and resources are needed for a community arts council to support revitalization?

· Who should be involved (and how) in a community arts council?

· What are the goals and objectives of a community arts council if it is to be used to help revitalize a town?

· How does an arts council draw upon the community culture and talents?

The following articles deal with the history and development of successful community arts councils, explore the rationale behind an arts council as well as the tools and resources needed for community revitalization. I also explored studies that examined the role that arts have played in regenerating communities, which would be a basis for creating an arts council.

Kay, A. (2005). Art and community development: the role the arts have in regenerating communities. Community Development Journal, 35(4), 414-424.

Grodach, C. (2010). Art spaces, public space, and the link to community development. Community Development Journal, 45(4), 474-493.

Ewell, M. (2000). Community arts councils: Historical perspective. CultureWork: A Periodic Broadside for the Arts on Culture Workers, 5(1), 1-16.

Cohen, R. (2003). Arts and economic prosperity: The economic impact of nonprofit arts organizations and their audiences. Journal of Arts Management, Law and Society, 33(1), 17-31.