Public art programs: research update

provide the benefits of discovery, stimulation and relaxation (Oliphant 2000). Furthermore, people's participation in art enhances their development and expands their thoughts about culture. In short, art can make individuals more socially conscious. B Communities committed to providing opportunities for experiencing art are considered more livable because they are attractive to businesses and industry and they offer a higher quality of life for residents (Riley 2002). Tourism is strongly linked to art; art is believed to stimulate tourism in a community, and vice versa. Art-related tourism generates tourists and revenue, attracts high-income consumers, extends the tourist season and is a 'green' form of the industry (Hughes 2000). Revitalization efforts have increased in many cities because of the strong presence of art opportunities. Art programs can be highly effective in reducing community problems related to delinquent behavior and truancy in youth (Spector 2000). The Philadelphia Department of Recreation Mural Arts Program (MAP) is one such program. It began in the early 1980s when the city undertook to remove graffiti in the city while creating a positive, productive and creative outlet for adjudicated graffiti…