"Arts matter - they matter to me, and they to Massachusetts"

- Malcolm Rogers, Museum of Fine Arts Boston

Arts Matter Day is just one week away, and we want to hear why the arts matter to YOU. Join your colleagues from around the Commonwealth by contributing to the cross-sector discussion about arts and culture in the upcoming elections.

Check out our roundup of this week’s featured Arts Matter videos:

In the Museum of Fine Arts’ video, Ann and Graham Gund Director Malcolm Rogers highlights the influence of arts and culture in forming Massachusetts’ identity.

"Arts matter because Massachusetts is a national home of creativity. To attract talent in the city, we need great cultural institutions. They are a magnet. Arts matter most of all because they are the lifeblood of our community, right across the state, from the Clark Institute in Western Massachusetts to the MFA here in Boston. Arts matter, they matter to me, and they matter in Massachusetts."

The staff and students at Raw Art Works understand the impact of art in their community. Watch their Arts Matter video for an array of perspectives about how art catalyzes social change, builds community, and forms friendships. 

The Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts recently collaborated with the South High School in Worcester, incorporating elements from Memphis the Musical into the curriculum. Watch to see the transformative effect the program had on these students.

Adrian Tió from the College of the Visual and Performing Arts at UMASS Dartmouth discusses the recent installation at the university’s gallery, commenting on the way it brings the creative economy to life, and shows that arts matter.

Imagine our community spaces without the presence of art. This is where the Art Connection comes in, placing artwork on formerly blank walls. Check out their video to see how art can enliven our common spaces.

Haven’t shared your Arts Matter video yet? Check out our simple guide.