Engagement in the City: How Arts and Culture Impact Development in Urban Areas provides readers with numerous examples of ways that the arts can contribute to community development. Through the diverse backgrounds of its contributing authors - representing artists, art educators, and public administration scholars – the role of arts is explored as a contributing factor in strengthening communities. The book shows that the arts have the potential to positively impact a wide variety of development interests, including economic, education, health, social capital, and of cultural. The book provides strategies and techniques for implementing successful arts-based projects, whether it be through public art initiatives, service-learning opportunities, or the development or cultural districts. Cross-sectoral collaboration is a key in many of these projects, making the book beneficial for artists and community leaders who seek ways to work together to improve their cities.

Contributions by: Hana Alhadad, Bryna Bobick, Brooke Foy, B. Kathleen Gallagher, Leigh N. Hersey, Brian Kisida, Sara Konrath, Anne Kotleba, Justin Lee, Tze Ming Jae Andrew Lim, Justin Makemson, Kathy Marzilli Miraglia, Alisa Moldavanova, Gordon Shockley, Ngiam Su-Lin