Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development Section 4-601

      (a)      Many of the citizens of the State lack the opportunity to enjoy or participate in and develop a greater appreciation of performing, visual and creative arts in general, such as theatrical performances, concerts, opera, dance and ballet performances and recitals, art and art exhibitions, fine examples of architecture, and creative writing;

      (b)      With increasing leisure time, the practice and enjoyment of the arts are of increasing importance;

      (c)      Many of the citizens of the State possess talents of an artistic and creative nature which cannot be utilized to their fullest extent under existing conditions;

      (d)      The general welfare of the people of the State will be promoted by giving further recognition to the arts as a vital part of the culture and heritage of the State and as an important means of expanding the scope of our educational program for children and adults;

      (e)      Interest in the arts will provide employment for artists in all fields and encourage citizens to participate in the practice of the arts;

      (f)      Increased activities in the arts will increase employment in the State by encouraging the production of artistic events in various communities in the State, thus utilizing the talents and services of many citizens;

      (g)      The standards of artistic performance will be improved because of the encouragement of increased citizen participation, and a demand for higher standards for more citizens; and

      (h)      The general economy will be helped by the increased employment caused by the implementation of artistic programs, by the construction of places of performance and exhibition of artistic programs, and by many visitors who will visit the State to witness these programs.