Jimmy Pickens disparaged city leaders and the Reporter-News for supporting the National Endowment for the Arts. In fact, they deserve credit for recognizing the economic importance of the arts to the city. In 1993, with money from the NEA, the Texas Commission for the Arts awarded Abilene a three-year grant for downtown revitalization. This money, plus matching local funds, assisted in producing the successful results enjoyed today. The building renovations, the initiation of Artwalk and the Museums of Abilene represent impressive examples of NEA's positive effects.
Businesses thrive downtown since the renaissance.
Abilene's burgeoning reputation as the cultural center of West Texas lures visitors who once would have overlooked us. These visitors contribute to the economy by staying, eating and shopping in Abilene. Supporting cultural endeavors and the revitalization of downtown enhances the growth and development of the city economically, but the arts enrich society in general. Exposure to art, music and literature stirs imagination and inspires innovation. A community without imagination and innovation cannot flourish.