Several rankings announced over the last few months show the positive economic impact and strong support for Maryland’s arts and culture sector, of which the Maryland State Arts Council  (MSAC) is a primary funder.

The National Center for Arts Research, or SMU DataArts , recently ranked Maryland first in public support of the arts, as well as fifth overall for the most arts-vibrant states. These first-ever rankings researched the nationwide supply, demand, and government support for the arts. Rounding out the top five most vibrant states are New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Minnesota.

According to the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies  (NASAA), Maryland ranked third in the nation in per capita public funding for the arts in FY 2023. NASAA notes that the primary revenue source for most arts agencies come from state funding; however, these rankings also track federal sources, the National Endowment for the Arts, private contributions, and more. In Maryland, the advocacy group Maryland Citizens for the Arts  works tirelessly lobbying for public funding for the arts every year.

The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis  announced that the arts in the U.S. are at an all-time economic high. When looking at the latest Arts & Culture Production Satellite Account data, Maryland’s arts sector  adds nearly $13 billion to the state economy, supports more than 80,000 jobs, and contributes $7.3 billion to arts workers compensations.

“The data consistently show us that Marylanders value the arts,” said MSAC Executive Director Steven Skerritt-Davis. “I’m proud of MSAC’s part in Maryland’s overall vibrancy as our incredible team delivers robust government support to arts organizations and artists in every jurisdiction every year. This helps artists and arts organizations thrive, enhancing the quality of life for all Marylanders.”