OKLAHOMA’S ECONOMY AND THE ARTS
Supporting in the arts means investing in a thriving industry that delivers significant economic and community benefits across Oklahoma. The Oklahoma study, part of Americans for the Arts’ national Arts & Economic Prosperity 5 report, was led locally by Oklahomans for the Arts in partnership with organizations across the state.
Oklahoma Arts and Culture Industry Generated
$4.8 Billion
“Even in a strong economy, some may perceive the arts as an unaffordable luxury. Fortunately, this rigorous report offers evidence that the nonprofit arts industry provides not just cultural benefits to our communities, but also makes significant positive economic contributions to the nation’s financial well-being regardless of the overall state of the economy. The arts as a driver of employment, vibrancy, tourism, and building a creative workforce is certainly something to applaud.”
— Jonathan Spector
President & CEO The Conference Board
Arts and culture organizations serve as job creators, providing employment opportunities for artists, musicians, educators, and administrators. Additionally, local businesses—such as restaurants, hotels, and retailers—benefit from the spending of arts patrons, multiplying the economic impact. With the arts contributing to workforce development, innovation, and community revitalization, supporting this sector strengthens Oklahoma’s economy and enhances quality of life for all residents.
42,292
Jobs in the Oklahoma Arts and Culture Industry
Action Fund
in partnership with Americans for the Arts
Social Media
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The arts and culture industry in Oklahoma is a cornerstone of the state’s identity, fostering creativity and connection in communities large and small. From vibrant music scenes and theater performances to world-class museums and traditional Native American art, the sector reflects the diversity and heritage of the state’s people. Arts and culture not only celebrate Oklahoma’s past but also shape its future by driving tourism, attracting businesses, and creating a sense of pride and place.
2.4x more
Than the Agriculture and Forestry Industry Produced in Oklahoma
Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis & National Assembly of State Arts Agencies (2024). Data collected for 2022.
EXPLORE THE ARTS & ECONOMIC PROSPERITY 5 REPORTS
in partnership with Americans for the Arts
EXPLORE REGIONAL REPORTS
FROM THE ARTS & ECONOMIC PROSPERITY 5 REPORTS
“Museums and the arts play a pivotal role in their community. They are a source of pride to the local population and serve as hub for many different commercial ventures. As the world around us changes, people from greater distances are drawn to communities that feature dynamic points of interest such as museums.”
— Governor Bill Anoatubby
The Chickasaw Nation
Oklahoma Museum Reports
ECONOMIC CALCULATOR
The Arts and Economic Prosperity Calculator for Oklahoma is a powerful tool that allows arts and cultural organizations to measure their economic impact within the state. Customized with data from the Arts & Economic Prosperity 5 study, the calculator provides organizations with tailored insights into how their spending—and that of their audiences—supports jobs, generates income for local residents, and contributes to state and local government revenue. By entering their specific budget information, organizations can quickly see the ripple effects of their activities on Oklahoma’s economy. This tool helps demonstrate the value of investing in the arts and equips organizations with data to strengthen their advocacy, grant applications, and community engagement efforts.
Thank you to our sponsors and contributing partners.
Read the Frequently Asked Questions (and answers) here: