Antanette Mosley

Office: Asheville City Council

Primary Candidate Survey Response

To what extent do you agree with the following statement? Please briefly explain your answer.

“Local government should play an active role in supporting arts and culture because of their impact on the economy, quality of life, and community recovery.”

Strongly agree – Local government should be a proactive partner through funding, policy, and planning

Arts and culture are not extras. They are essential to the health, economy, and identity of a city like Asheville. As someone who began my legal career in entertainment, copyright, and trademark law, I understand both the economic and emotional value of creative work. Local government has a responsibility to nurture this sector through intentional investment and thoughtful policy.

We’ve seen firsthand how the arts build bridges across difference, create jobs, and help communities heal, especially after crises like Tropical Storm Helene. Supporting the arts is not a luxury. It is part of how we build a resilient, connected, and vibrant Asheville for everyone.

When we plan for housing, infrastructure, and economic development, arts and culture must be in the conversation. They cannot be on the margins.