ARTS REPORTS
ArtsAVL is committed to advocating for Buncombe County’s creative sector through comprehensive research and reporting initiatives. These efforts highlight the economic and social contributions of the arts while offering valuable insights into trends and challenges within the local creative industry. By leveraging data, we can better support the artists, organizations, and cultural enterprises that enrich our community.
Arts reporting is essential for demonstrating the arts’ economic impact—such as job creation, tourism revenue, and local spending—while also showcasing their role in improving quality of life and fostering community connection. It helps identify challenges facing the sector and enables ArtsAVL to develop targeted programs and advocate effectively for resources. By using evidence-based insights, we strengthen our ability to engage policymakers, funders, and stakeholders in supporting the creative sector’s growth and resilience.
Key initiatives for 2025-2026 will be a new music industry study for the Asheville Area, a WNC craft supply chain study, and countywide arts recovery plan for Buncombe County.
MOST RECENT REPORTS
Coordinated Arts Recovery Efforts Underway in Asheville and Buncombe County
Three major planning efforts are shaping Asheville’s arts recovery after Helene, building resilience, supporting creatives, and strengthening our community.
Building a Legacy of Resilience: Arts and Culture Recommendations from the ULI Panel
Building a Legacy of Resilience: Arts and Culture Recommendations from the ULI Panel In the wake of Tropical Storm Helene’s devastation, Asheville is facing a rare opportunity to not just recover, but to rebuild stronger, more equitably, and more creatively. The Urban...
Buncombe County Cultural Asset Recovery Update – June 2025
Significant damage to Buncombe County cultural assets dropped from 41% to 33% between February and June 2025, showing steady post-Hurricane Helene recovery.