Placemaking, Creative Sector Asset Mapping, and Cultural Planning
Creative placemaking and cultural planning processes integrate arts, culture, and design activities to strengthen communities. It requires cross-sector partnerships, deep community engagement, and the involvement of artists and designers to advance local economic, physical, and social change, ultimately laying the groundwork for systems change.
SAACA's IMPACT
Collaboration with Communities
SAACA collaborates with over communities, cities, and municipalities in Arizona to develop Creative Placemaking, creative sector asset mapping, and cultural planning programs. These initiatives include integrated cultural asset mapping and community-based processes leading to new and rejuvenated parks and open spaces that reflect local identity through arts and culture.
Our engagement strategies focus on:
Equity
Arts and Culture
Community Engagement
Partnerships
Stewardship
Cultural and Economic Vitality
We believe that cultural vibrancy is as crucial as finance and trade in crafting successful communities. By shaping a sense of place, cultural richness attracts an educated workforce, businesses, and visitors seeking authentic experiences unique to the destination. Our work strengthens the arts in our region and makes experiences widely available to residents and visitors.
Programs and Initiatives
SAACA’s initiatives range from arts and economic development to arts and tourism, exploring how arts contribute to community identity, economic growth, and tourism.
Developing Creative Sector Asset Mapping, Placemaking Programs and Cultural PlanninG
A New Lens on Community Connection
Community Revitalization Creative placemaking connects arts and culture to larger community revitalization initiatives through cross-discipline, cross-sector activities, driven by strong leadership and vision.
Programs and Processes Our programs emphasize community involvement, artist-in-residence initiatives, revitalizing vacant spaces, and integrating the arts into decision-making processes in public safety, transportation, and development sectors. Types of Planning
Standard Placemaking: Supporting and hosting events, classes, and public art programs.
Tactical Placemaking: Small projects focused on creating quality places with broad impact.
Creative Placemaking: Revitalizing public spaces through arts, culture, and creative thinking.
Strategic Placemaking: Strategic investment in creating vibrant communities for living, working, and playing.
Starting the Process
Community Engagement SAACA encourages direct engagement with the community, asset mapping, and inclusive leadership in parks and recreation. Investing equally among departments in arts and culture and regularly engaging with community organizations is crucial. The Payoff Collaboration and engagement require significant time and resources, but the payoff is substantial—building vibrant, connected, and thriving communities through the power of arts and culture.