UNDATED (NewsDakota.com) – North Dakota has a blossoming tourism industry and this has been confirmed by the latest tourism report, covering the first quarter of 2018, which found tourism brought in $110m in receipts.
Of this, the arts account for 13% of ND tourist income, according to state figures. The wonderful scenery of the state and the idiosyncratic nature of its people is palpable through the multitude of TV and film successes, Fargo key among them, filmed within the state boundaries. The result is a state populace fascinated by film and an ever-developing artistic tapestry that continues to influence creatives across the nation.
How the scenery hooks imaginations
North Dakota is synonymous with national parks, proudly claiming one that bears the name of the nation’s most notable naturalist, Teddy Roosevelt. The shifting landscape, from rolling tundra hill to badland, feels like a far off world that could inspire travel posters. However, there is a distinctly human element to the park in its history, the setting to where the 26th President walked his sojourn following the death of his wife and mother, as detailed by the Twin Cities paper. The result is inspiration, for artists and filmmakers alike; 2017s box office smash hit, which finalized figures state brought in $600m, was also set in North Dakota, with the main character following that same emotional trail. Inspiration has also been felt as far away as Croatia, the home country of 2008 flick Buick Riviera, which harnesses that same catharsis.
Native American’s indelible mark
North Dakota has a storied tradition with the Native Americans, with some of the most notable Native American figureheads, Sitting Bull included, originating from the area. With their heritage comes incredible art that is part and parcel of the North Dakota experience. Multiple larger-than-life animals dot the highways of ND, near New Salem and further afield. This has inspired decades of art from the likes of Rick Bartow, for who a museum has now opened displaying many of his works. Today, the art takes on a modern tilt – an exhibition is opening this year in Bismarck that details 160 years of Native American portraits, in film and on paper.
How art is inspiring the state
Far apart from an expression of culture that’s most beneficial for the history books and wellbeing of its citizens, art in North Dakota is big business. In Bismarck-Mandan alone, Jamestown not included, art brings in $43m every year according to official statistics reported by NDNow. Together, the contributory effect from the rest of the state leads to a huge economic impetus with a clear marker behind it – artwork.
The culture of North Dakota has been established for centuries, through native Americans and immigrant artists. Today, a rich melting pot of artwork is present, providing economic and cultural stimulus to people of all backgrounds. Providing international inspiration, the art of ND will be a permanent feature of the state for decades to come.