The Arts: A Driver of Rural Innovation
A Direct Force in Rural Innovation. Creativity Ignited. Linking Arts and Technology.
The Arts: A Driver of Rural Innovation
The arts are “a direct force in rural innovation,” according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which found a strong statistical link between the arts, innovation, and rural dynamism. Recognizing this connection, Miami University supports local institutions that bring arts-driven innovation forward. These include the Oxford Community Arts Center, housed in a university facility, where artists embody entrepreneurship through studios, classes, and performances; the Miami University Richard and Carole Cocks Art Museum, which anchors exhibitions and outreach; and artworks donated by alumnus Tom Smith that enrich public spaces. Building on these assets, Miami’s Fisher Innovation College@Elm incubator unites arts and technology, fueling entrepreneurship, and innovation in Oxford.
The Miami Difference
Talent That Advances and Elevates Ohio Communities.
- Innovation in Oxford is driven by Miami University’s support of the Community Arts Center, the Richard and Carole Cocks Art Museum, campus artwork, and the Fisher Innovation College@Elm incubator.
- Residents, artists, and emerging entrepreneurs gain applied experience in studios, classes, performances, exhibitions, and community engagement, developing entrepreneurial skills.
- Oxford’s economy is strengthened through linking arts and technology at Miami’s Fisher Innovation College@Elm incubator, which has generated $3.3 million in payroll and created 67 jobs, proving the arts are a direct force in rural innovation.
