In any endeavor to revitalize a struggling community, triage must include patronage of the arts. Providing space is a very sensible solution. Art is a fertile seed for growth of community. Your biggest challenge may be finding the one individual who will manage your efforts in a way that creates lasting, positive change.

Unfortunately our economy has strained the arts immeasurably. Fortunately, there are more affordable vacancies. Unfortunately, they are everywhere. The exciting aspect of this is the opportunity to bring a group of remarkable people together, add water (and power) and watch them grow.

Be generous. Be wary. Be on the look-out for potential genius. Perhaps you might begin your courtship by hunting down award-winning talent. If you successfully find brilliance in the making and can nurture an artistic community, the work that will spring forth will create a remarkable sunset even on the most cloudy Aberdeen day.