The attached interview above is from SDPB's daily public-affairs show, In the Moment.
Today artists and arts advocates are gathering in Pierre. Their goal is to raise awareness for the importance of the arts in South Dakota with state lawmakers.
"The arts bring us together," says Arts South Dakota Executive Director Jim Speirs. "It's a positive conversation. It's a collaborative conversation. We always say the arts are not a partisan issue, it's not a partisan topic. It's good for all of us. It makes our community stronger."
While Speirs talks about the strength that arts bring to the community, he also notes the economic impact. According to Speirs, art tourism generates a lot of money for the state. For every dollar the state invests in the arts, there is a $20 return.
Dale Lamphere, South Dakota artist laureate, says he has always enjoyed creating objects. He sees that happening in the next generation, whose works are being displayed in the Capitol rotunda.
"The arts do so much to illuminate who we are, and record that for posterity," Lamphere says.
