News

2009 Otis report on the Creative Economy Released/Mattel gift



11/10/09

Otis released its annual report on the creative economy today, with a public event in downtown L.A. for top business, philanthropic, and art and design leaders. Dr. Nancy D. Sidhu, V.P. and Chief Economist in the Kyser Center for Economic Research of the Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC) presented the report’s new findings and a 5-year employment projection. Sir Ken Robinson, creativity expert and author of “The Element: How Finding Your Passion Changes Everything; ”Andy Mooney, chairman of Disney Consumer Products; and Laura Zucker, executive director, Los Angeles County Arts Commission participated in a discussion led by MC Frances Anderton, on-air host and producer at KCRW, host of “DnA: Design and Architecture” and producer of Warren Olney’s daily current affairs shows, “Which Way, LA?” and “To The Point.” Following the panel, Mattel announced a gift of $1.85 million to Otis in support of student scholarships, art and design curriculum and facility enhancement. Mattel International President Bryan Stockton, who is also a member of the Otis Board of Trustees, emphasized Mattel's commitment to "investing now in the next generation of creative leaders, in the health of our economy, in the strength of our communities, and in innovations in the art and design industry." 

The report found that as the U.S. economy continues to transition from a manufacturing-based to a service-based economy, the Los Angeles region will see an uptick in employment for artists and designers. Data show that the “creative economy” is one of the largest business sectors in Los Angeles and Orange Counties, generating nearly 1 million in direct and indirect jobs and almost $140 billion in sales/receipts from the arts, design and entertainment industries combined. Over $5.1 billion in state and local tax revenues are generated by art and design-oriented businesses.

As Sir Ken Robinson pointed out, L.A. has the conditions to support an interactive, dymanic economy because of the richness and diversity of its global cultures. The seeds of a new economy based on abundant creativity will thrive in Southern California.

press release (pdf)
KNBC news interview with Faculty member Kathleen Milnes

barbie

President Hoi with Mattel International President Bryan Stockton and one-of-a-kind Otis Barbie