There is a distinct and undeniable link between creativity and the quality of life in a community, between commerce and art.

You can see it in the jeweler’s work and high fashion or in the clever ways we use art to sell products on television and billboards. You can find it in a library book or the joy of simply looking at a painting.

In economics the importance of creativity and its relation to the more practical parts of our lives is recognized in something called the New Growth Theory which states that economic growth has more to do with new and creative ideas than it does capital. Albert Einstein noticed the principle importance of creativity when he said, “Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.”

Children who receive a more rounded education, one concentrated as much on art, music and dance as it is grounded in math and science will become adults who are able to see a bigger picture and think outside the box, to find creative solutions to real world problems. This creative thinking will make them not only more productive at work but contributors to the overall wellbeing of a company and community.

Studies have shown a measurable link between children who participate in the arts and an increased problem solving and critical thinking skills development that impacts academic success. Exposure to the arts develops critical thinking skills and imagination as well as refined creative and cognitive skills. It helps level the playing field for all children regardless of socio-economic status.

Art is a very powerful entity. It has influenced the design of the car you drive, your cell phone and the plate from which you ate breakfast. Art is in everything we see even though we might not think about it right away. It is a vastly important part of our daily lives and that of our children. It adds color and enjoyment to the ordinary and mundane. It provides children with important life skills such as decision making, problem solving, articulating a vision and building self-discipline and self-confidence. It also improves team-building skills and instills in them a respect for different points of view and different traditions and cultures. In other words, a child who is exposed to the arts is better equipped to deal with life’s many challenges.

In the long run, this exposure to and appreciation of the arts benefits everyone in a community. According to the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices, “the non-profit arts industry is a potent force in economic development nationwide.” Arts programs have aided local and state governments in generating economic growth through cultural attractions, crafts and tourism. By serving as the cornerstone for cultural renewal and downtown revitalization efforts, the arts community has worked to redevelop and restore communities and expand the tax revenue base as well. Strong arts programs have helped improve its citizens’ quality of life by creating “vibrant public spaces” and improved community image.

Having a strong arts community makes an area more desirable to businesses and citizens alike. The NGA added that, “thriving cultural life generates income, jobs and tax revenue and it also creates visibility for a state.” People want to live and work in an area that values culture and offers events in which they can partake such as music festivals, theater performances and artisan events. This is also a component in tourism development as an area creates an image and becomes a destination for others through its offerings.

So much can be said for the importance of a thriving arts community. Viewing the arts from various perspectives – as an industry, as a conduit for economic development and community revitalization and tourism and in its purest form as a creative outlet for self-expression and the appreciation of aesthetic beauty – can not only make for a well-rounded individual but a well-rounded community as well.

Joanna Bailey is the director of the Bay Minette Public Library. She can be reached at baileyvolumes@gmail.com