For 19 years, Family and Consumer Sciences agent in Johnson County has supported the arts for economic development purposes. the economy has remained one of the top concerns for our County Extension Councils for many years. FCS has special expertise to be able to address this issue with unique  cultural and artistic approaches to achieve an enhanced economy via this strategy. According to a recent article in "Connection " Magazine,  the value of arts and cultural production in America in 2015 was $763.6 billion, amounting to 4.2% of the gross domestic product. According to the article, the arts contribute more to the national economy than do the construction, mining, utilities, insurance and accommodation and food services industries. Ninety seven percent of U.S. employers say creativity is increasingly important to them. Of the employers looking to hire creatives, 85% say they are unable to find the applicants they seek. two of the sources for this article were the National Endowment for the Arts and the US Department of Commerce. 

FCS worked with 139 in artistic skill development, 63 in art and community health, 479 in arts engagement, 86 in community design and creative placemaking,98 in increasing access to quality arts experiences, 5 in traditions, and 31 in volunteer engagement in the arts. 

FCS initiated the Oil Springs Cultural Arts and Recreation Center, the preservation of the historic Stafford House, the development of the Story Patch Theater, it supports the Johnson County Piecemakers Quilt Guild, the monthly free lessons on Embroidery, the monthly lessons shared through Extension Homemakers, classes in sewing, quilting, painting, textiles, culinary art, stained glass, woodworking, pottery, and the performing arts, the annual event Holiday Happening held at the Ramada Inn, and a variety of leader lead workshops held through out the year to support skill development, increased leadership opportunities and expand the arts enhancement  tenfold through FCS supportive networks. 

FCS developed the concept of promoting arts from the city of "Paintsville", as a Gateway to the Arts for the region. Groups are beginning to book tours based on this concept increasing the value added for the artist, the venues, and the whole hospitality industry. 

The vision of enhancing the economy via the arts has become a reality, and is set for growth.