Arts enthusiasts feel deeply about the importance of the arts and can speak eloquently about topics like the universality or transcendent nature of the arts. Still, many have been frustrated by an inability to spark a positive, constructive public conversation on the topic — especially when it comes to public funding, which is too often targeted as wasteful government spending or misguided government intrusion into an area where it doesn’t belong. 

This toolkit provides guidance and sample content that illustrate how communicators can more effectively convey the importance of the arts — including the role of the arts in helping create strong and equitable places. The material draws on communications and framing best practices, as well as insights from Topos Partnership research.