The Missouri Arts Council honored cities and individuals at the Capitol today.

Missouri’s First Lady Georganne Nixon, legislators, Economic Development Director Linda Martinez, artists and art advocates gathered to recognize those furthering the arts in Missouri.

Missouri Arts Council chairwoman Sharon Beshore says during a faltering economic climate, the arts remain a steady revenue-driving attraction for the state.

She says arts in Missouri are funded in part through the non-resident athletes’ and entertainers’ income tax and credits legislators for securing funding that has moved the state up on a list put out by the National Assembly of State Art Agencies.

Missouri was 49th on that list just five years ago and now is No. 9 in the U.S.

The Kansas City Art Insitute was recognized for its contributions to education; The city of Springfield was honored for drawing on the arts to promote economic growth and tourism; and the Allied Arts Council of St. Joseph received an award for its dedication to bringing the arts and people together.

Visit missouriartscouncil.org  for more.

Jessica Machetta reports [Download/listen MP3]