Concord Receives Helen Putnam Award for Creative Arts Program
CONCORD, CA (Oct. 22, 2024) — The City of Concord has been recognized with the prestigious Helen Putnam Award for Excellence in Economic Development through the Arts, honoring its innovative Creative Concord public arts initiative. The League of California Cities presented the award during its annual conference, held on October 17 in Long Beach.
Concord Mayor Edi Birsan accepted the award on behalf of the city, expressing gratitude for the program’s success.
“We are grateful to be recognized for this program, which sparked public interest in the arts, spurred economic activity, and spotlighted Concord’s efforts to strengthen our community spirit through an arts and culture experience,” Birsan said.
Launched in 2022, Creative Concord was designed to reinvigorate the city’s downtown and foster a sense of identity and belonging after the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic. The program hosts three multi-day events each year, featuring mural installations, live painting, sculpture exhibitions, musical performances, and hands-on community involvement.
The initiative also aims to support economic vitality by attracting visitors, driving foot traffic to local businesses, and promoting tourism. Since its inception, Creative Concord has united more than 100 organizations, businesses, and community advocates. It has created paid opportunities for local artists, donated artworks to nonprofits, and contributed to charities through proceeds from art sales at its signature Art & Music Jam event.
Highlighting diverse styles, cultures, and themes
The program is a collaboration between the City of Concord, creative agency Local Edition Creative, and tourism bureau Visit Concord.
“With a focus on highlighting diverse styles, cultures, and themes, Creative Concord has enlivened the city with a portfolio of artworks that embody a sense of welcoming and an understanding that a wonderfully diverse community can be found here,” said Sage Loring, co-founder and creative director of Local Edition Creative.
The Helen Putnam Award, established in 1982 by the League of California Cities, honors cities across California that have implemented innovative programs with lasting community impact. The awards highlight efforts that improve residents’ quality of life while lowering costs or delivering services more efficiently.
Concord’s recognition underscores the growing role of public art in promoting economic growth, community engagement, and cultural enrichment.