An Inventory and Assessment of Raton Arts and Cultural Assets

In 2009 UNM-BBER investigated the arts and cultural (A & C) economy in Raton, New Mexico, with a focus on an inventory and assessment of the communitys cultural assets. According to the authors, a principle challenge for Raton is to leverage the sense of place and natural environment of the region to create a broader market, thus providing the jobs and revenues necessary for long-term growth and sustainability of the creative economy. The study consisted of three parts: an extensive inventory of the local creative economy\u27s assets; a community-based survey of artists, retailers, and others engaged in creative industries; and an analysis of the creative economy\u27s impact and trends. The findings are presented in two sections: first, an analysis of the creative economy\u27s social assets, including a social network analysis, followed by a quantitative analysis of the economic impact of the area\u27s A & C, with a discussion of the potential market for A & C industries. Includes tables, charts, and a sample survey.\u2