Exciting changes are here: New Jersey has just made it easier for everyone to explore the arts.
The new website, JerseyArts.com, is here to help you find all the best things to do in the art world across the state.
No matter if you’re into live shows, art exhibits, or concerts, this platform offers events, discounts, and free options for you.
You can even sign up for a free account to get updates on things you might like.
It’s simple and easy to use, so it’s the perfect tool to discover what’s happening near you.
Adam Perle, who leads ArtPride New Jersey, says they want everyone—locals and visitors—to know just how much New Jersey has to offer when it comes to the arts.
And aside from fun nights out, it’s a big boost to the economy.
Across the country, arts and culture generate over $1 trillion every year.
In New Jersey alone, this industry brings in over $27 billion annually and supports nearly 140,000 jobs.
That’s huge!
Just think about it: when people go to a show or a museum, they don’t just buy a ticket.
They often grab dinner, stop for drinks afterward, or even book a hotel if they’re traveling from out of town.
All these extra activities add up to about $200 million spent in New Jersey yearly, just from nonprofit arts events alone.
Plus, arts organizations themselves hire about 10,000 people in the state and spend $340 million a year to keep things running.
That’s money going toward marketing, education, production, and more.
Clearly, New Jersey has been stepping up its support for the arts.
In 2024, the state set aside $32 million to help fund arts and culture programs.
Earlier this year, nearly 900 arts groups, projects, and individual artists got funding from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.
On top of that, Governor Phil Murphy made October “Discover Jersey Arts Month, shining a spotlight on how important the arts are to life in New Jersey.
And the new JerseyArts.com site is packed with interesting content.
You’ll find stories, podcasts, and updates about everything happening in the arts world here.
There are highlights of unique events, like a play at the New Jersey Repertory Company that looks at artificial intelligence and healthcare.
You can also learn about the latest exhibits at places like the Montclair Art Museum, Newark Museum of Art, or the New Jersey State Museum in Trenton.
It’s a great way to see what’s out there and find something that catches your eye.
However, what’s really special about this new platform is that it’s designed for everyone.
They feature discounts and even highlight free events, so it’s much easier for people to participate.
If there’s one thing for sure: The arts bring communities together.
They create spaces where people from all kinds of backgrounds can meet and connect.
Perle explains that the arts play a big role in building those bonds, helping people experience different cultures, and opening their minds to new ideas.
And the numbers back this up.
A comprehensive study, Arts & Economic Prosperity 6, reveals that nonprofit arts organizations contribute an impressive $532 million annually to New Jersey’s economy.
This includes $338.4 million in spending by the organizations and $193.8 million by audiences.
On top of that, all this activity generates an extra $116.9 million in government revenue.
Allison Tratner, who leads the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, says the arts are a huge part of what makes New Jersey a great place to live.
Sure, the arts create jobs and boost the economy, but they, amazingly, add color and life to our towns and cities.
Supporting the arts means supporting the future of New Jersey.
So, if you’re looking for something fun to do or want to discover more about the arts in your area, head over to JerseyArts.com.
Whether it’s a play, an art exhibit, or live music, there’s something for everyone.
Explore, enjoy, and see what makes New Jersey’s arts scene so special.