Art for Economic Development in Rural Communities

The most recent of funding for Citizens’ Institute on Rural Design (CIRD) design workshops includes an example of an arts center in Maine.

1 minute read

October 28, 2019, 11:00 AM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


Maureen Milliken reports on the recent designation of the Snow Pond Center for the Arts in Sidney, Maine to the Citizens’ Institute on Rural Design (CIRD).

The CIRD is an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with the Housing Assistance Council and buildingcommunityWORKSHOP, and local leaders hope to parlay the recognition for the Snow Pond Center for the Arts into a larger, collaborative economic development foundation for Kennebec County.

The article quotes John Wiggin, executive director of Snow Pond, in explaining the significance of the recognition and the potential of the arts center in the local economy: "Education, the arts and culture are the primary drivers of economic development, and when looked at historically across the U.S., rural communities that are vibrant, growing, dynamic have that common theme."

Snow Pond Center was one of 23 designees nationwide, as announced in September.

Friday, September 13, 2019 in Mainebiz

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

July 2, 2025 - Mother Jones

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Screenshot of shade map of Buffalo, New York with legend.

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

0 seconds ago - 2TheAdvocate.com

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

18 minutes ago - Mother Jones

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog