Strategic design alliances stimulate economic development across rural North Carolina


Art-Force Incorporated, a non-profit tax exempt organization based in Chapel Hill, stimulates and diversifies economic development in distressed communities by allying artists, artisans and designers with entrepreneurs, small businesses, educational institutions, and local agencies. Through cross-currents of artistic design and production, Art-Force reaffirms connection to place – creating new products, jobs and transforming community.

Skilled in the implementation of these imaginative partnerships, Art-Force is helping to reinvigorate downtowns through the infusion of a creatively-minded workforce and the expansion of local manufacturing. Combining innovation with sensitivity to local heritage, artists and manufacturers work side-by-side to positively impact their local economies, ultimately serving as community change-agents.

Civic artwork installations and product exhibitions – created as a part of a grant awarded by ArtPlace America that accelerates creative placemaking across the U.S. – are currently being realized in rural North Carolina. In Greenville, Art-Force partnered local textile manufacturer Parrott Canvas Company with North Carolina artist Jan-Ru Wan, to create a collection of versatile lifestyle products, including cross-body bags and a set of fashionable, yet functional baskets. In Sanford, metals engineering firm WST Industries was strategically matched with Raleigh-based designers Chandra Cox and Susan Cannon, to produce a stunning family of modern, sleek, portable steel and aluminum tables.

In collaboration with the N.C. Rural Economic Development Center, Art-Force is helping to set Siler City apart from most other rural communities its size, with a turnaround propelled by the arts. A third design alliance combines the talents of downtown Siler City flooring manufacturer Floorazzo with artists Hoss Haley and Rick Beck, to create dynamic three-dimensional forms, including sculptural lighting, wall-screens and table tops. Redevelopment of this historic downtown – restored with studios, galleries and a public plaza – has put artists at the core of local enterprise.

Current research indicates that adaptation, resilience and reinvention at an accelerated pace are essential for the survival and stability of rural manufacturing in North Carolina and in America.