The city of San Marcos proclaimed Oct. 2024 as Arts and Humanities Month, recognizing the essential role that arts and culture play in the makeup of the community and its economic vitality.

The proclamation was intended to spotlight the upcoming SMarts Awards, where the San Marcos Arts Commission will recognize individuals making significant contributions to the local arts scene on Oct. 24. The commission will also make its annual Arts and Cultural Grants allocations this month to organizations and creators who continue to enhance the city through artistic and cultural programming.

The proclamation highlighted significant growth of the Texas arts and culture industry, which has expanded by more than 30% over the past decade. This contributed $6 billion to the state economy and generated nearly $380 million in state sales tax revenue.

The proclamation also underscored the impact of arts education on Texas students. Those enrolled in more arts courses were found to have higher attendance rates, were up to 112% more likely to achieve exceptional standardized test scores and were 42% more likely to attend a four-year college or university.

San Marcos has also made significant efforts to promote public art, noting the city’s growing collection of sculptures, galleries and murals, including a newly unveiled piece “Flowing Through San Marcos” that welcomes visitors to downtown. The proclamation also highlighted San Marcos as a thriving destination for arts and culture, with year-round events like live music, theater performances, art markets, film festivals and cultural celebrations.