Media Contact:
Danielle Johnson, Wisconsin Department of Tourism
608-266-0458; djohnson@travelwisconsin.com
Francisco Loyola, Kenosha Art Association
262-945-9411; info@getbehindthearts.com
Tourism Secretary Klett to present ceremonial check
Kenosha, Wis. (March 28, 2014) – Visitors from around the region are invited to see firsthand the creative talent of Kenosha and Racine’s best artists during Get bEHIND the aRTS with the help of a $10,000 Joint Effort Marketing (JEM) grant from the Wisconsin Department of Tourism. Presented by Tourism Secretary Stephanie Klett, Get bEHIND the aRTS, April 12-13, is a two-day studio tour complete with demonstrations and artist meet and greets. Get bEHIND the aRTS estimates an economic impact of over $78,000 from traveler spending at area hotels, restaurants and stores.
“This is a fantastic event that highlights how important the creative community is to the fabric of the region,” said Secretary Klett. “Now in its fourth year, this grant will help stretch marketing dollars to reach a larger audience and create a bigger positive economic impact in the area.”
Get bEHIND the aRTS Studio Tour is a two day arts event that provides the public a rare, behind-the-scenes glimpse of the innovative and productive world of the working artist. The event is a self-guided tour of over 45 visual and performing artists’ studios featuring over 75 artists throughout Racine and Kenosha. The Studio Tour kicks off Friday night with a preview party, an exciting, fast pace overview of what to expect during the tour. The party features musical performances, hands-on art demonstrations, and gives participants a chance to mark their tour maps for their must-see studio visit selections. Grant funds will go towards online, print and radio advertising to complement a comprehensive public relations plan.
In fiscal 2013, the Department funded 56 Joint Effort Marketing projects, awarding a total of nearly $1.2 million dollars. Visitor expenditures driven by the marketing from these projects will exceed $36 million dollars. In 2012, the tourism economy in Wisconsin totaled an estimated $16.8 billion, a five percent increase over 2011. Visitor spending in Kenosha County topped $161 million in 2012, supporting over 2,800 jobs and over $18 million in state and local taxes. Racine County visitor spending totaled $208 million, supporting nearly 4,000 jobs and over $25 million in state and local taxes.
“Get Behind the Arts provides a unique, behind-the-scenes view of working artists, ranging from visual art to dance and music,” said Keith G. Bosman, City of Kenosha Mayor. “Demonstrations and discussions with the artists open up the creative process to the public. The arts offer a means to explore ideas, express emotions, and enhance and enrich the lives of all who encounter them. Get Behind the Arts should be recognized for celebrating the positive impact the arts bring to our communities.”
JEM grant funds are available to non-profit organizations for the promotion of Wisconsin tourism events and destinations. The state can fund up to 75 percent of a project’s first-year advertising and marketing costs, and provide support for second- and third-year projects with decreasing amounts for funding until projects become self-sustaining. For information on the JEM Program and application materials, visit http://industry.travelwisconsin.com.
The mission of the Wisconsin Department of Tourism is to market the state as the Midwest’s premier travel destination for fun. By executing industry-leading marketing programs, providing reliable travel information and establishing strategic partnerships, we will play a significant role in delivering exceptional customer service and generating greater economic impact and jobs for Wisconsin. The portal for traveler information can be found at: www.travelwisconsin.com.
