To say the arts are nice, but not necessary, negates some clear trends, according to the Massachusetts arts advocacy group MASSCreative.
Heading toward the 2018 election season, the group is trying to teach voters how to talk to candidates about increased public investment in the arts and the bigger payoff.
MASSCreative's Emily Ruddocksaid voters need to make the case the arts are not mutually exclusive from their other priorities.
"Parents want schools with excellent arts programs because it’s a sign of overall quality," Ruddock said.
Housing trends are another indicator.
“Older people are moving back in to cities with a vibrant cultural arts scene,” she said.
Arts policies are taking hold in pockets.
Amherst passed a bylaw recently that allocates one percent of town construction costs toward public art, and Boston Mayor Marty Walsh a few years ago elevated his Chief of Arts and Culture to a cabinet level position.
Starting this week, MASSCreative hosts a series of parties around the state, showing voters how to get candidates' attention.