“At their most powerful, arts and culture do not exist in a silo, separate from all other dimensions of our society. We are able to unleash their power when we position the arts in all facets of our daily lives, communities, towns, and cities. This includes the development of our built environment. Integrating design, creativity, artistic sensibility, and imagination helps to create physical infrastructure that can impact and nourish our sense of belonging and social well-being, which are critical components of thriving and healthy communities.

Trained as an urban planner, I recognize the importance of the built environment in shaping quality of life and outcomes in many ways. Elevating the arts in our built environment contributes to fostering social cohesion, making opportunity accessible to all, and bolstering our democracy and civic life.” —NEA Chair Maria Rosario Jackson

This edition of American Artscape: Bridges to Possibilities: Arts and the Built Environment explores how the arts and physical infrastructure intersect to create inclusive and vibrant spaces. We’ll Showcasing the vital contributions of artists and designers throughout the planning, design, and implementation stages, this issue demonstrates how their work helps bring community visions to life. Through these stories, we’ll uncover the powerful influence of the arts in building strong, dynamic communities and inspiring individuals to dream boldly and live resiliently.