Artists ask for more state funding

BOSTON, Mass. (WWLP) - Advocates say the arts often goes unrecognized as a driving economic force that provides jobs and builds communities.

As Beacon Hill faces another challenging budget next year, artists, advocates and lawmakers are asking lawmakers to raise arts funding.

They say arts funding creates jobs because many artists are self-employed. They say theater renovations throughout the state revitalizes communities and brings business to surrounding restaurants and stores.

"Well whether it’s individual artists or the theater community, people who work in film, the film tax credits have been phenomenally successful in creating jobs," Rep. Sarah Peake said.

Artists are asking lawmakers to maintain current tax credits for the film industry and increase funding for the Massachusetts Cultural Council, which provides grants to artists across the state.

The Patrick Administration is due to release its 2014 state budget proposal at the end of January.