New Harrisburg Arts District App Enhances Local Art Engagement
In an exciting development for art lovers and community members, the city of Harrisburg has launched a new mobile application designed to promote the vibrant arts scene within the recently designated Harrisburg Arts District. This innovative app, introduced by Visit Hershey & Harrisburg, aims to make it easier for both residents and visitors to discover and engage with arts-related events throughout the city.
The Harrisburg Arts District app was unveiled during a press conference held at the Susquehanna Art Museum, where Mary Smith, President and CEO of Visit Hershey & Harrisburg, highlighted its significance. “Harrisburg’s cultural heartbeat is in its theaters, museums, galleries, public arts, and performance venues,” Smith stated, emphasizing the importance of the arts in the community.
The app serves as a comprehensive guide to upcoming exhibitions, performances, and other arts-related activities within the district. Users can easily browse events, create shareable itineraries, and utilize mapping features to navigate the area. Additionally, the app offers audio tours for select attractions, providing a deeper understanding of Harrisburg’s artistic landscape.
The Harrisburg Arts District is a walkable area that encompasses parts of downtown, Midtown, and the riverfront, making it accessible for everyone. This initiative is supported by the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, Dauphin County, the city of Harrisburg, and Harristown Enterprises, all of which are committed to showcasing the rich cultural offerings of the area.
According to Karl Blischke, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, the creative sector plays a crucial role in the state’s economy, contributing approximately $30 billion annually and employing around 175,000 residents. “That’s real Pennsylvanians being supported by our creative sector,” Blischke remarked, underscoring the economic impact of the arts.
County Commissioner George Hartwick also spoke about the significance of promoting the arts. He noted that many locals may not be fully aware of the artistic resources available in their own community. “Sometimes we don’t even know what exists in our own backyard,” Hartwick said. He expressed hope that the app would help residents reconnect with the cultural assets in Harrisburg while also inviting visitors from across the state and country to experience the city’s artistic offerings.
The launch of the Harrisburg Arts District app represents a significant step toward enhancing local art appreciation and accessibility. By providing a user-friendly platform for discovering arts events, the app aims to foster a greater sense of community engagement and support for the region’s artists and cultural institutions.
For those interested in learning more about the Harrisburg Arts District and exploring the features of the new app, additional information is available through Visit Hershey & Harrisburg.
