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Art may be beautiful, but it’s also big business (in a good way). Here are some of the ways events like Rendezvous Royale contribute to our local economy:

Tourism and Visitor Spending
When people travel for art — whether collectors, casual art lovers, or friends of artists — they stay in hotels, eat in restaurants, shop locally, and often explore other attractions. All of those dollars flow into Cody’s businesses.

Jobs and Livelihoods
Artists, craftspeople, event staff, gallery workers, caterers, venue operators — many people’s income depends in part (or fully) on art events. Supporting artists isn’t just about celebrating creativity; it’s about supporting real livelihoods.

Sales, Commissions, and Auctions
The Buffalo Bill Art Show & Sale, live auctions, Buy‑It‑Now wall sales — these generate direct sales revenue for artists and the organizations that host them. That revenue re‑circulates locally (supplies, framing, shipping, marketing).

Multiplier Effects
According to national studies, nonprofit arts and culture organizations, along with their audiences, generate hundreds of billions in economic activity each year. For example, the Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 study revealed that nonprofit arts and cultural activity in 2022 generated $151.7 billion nationally. Also, arts and cultural industries contribute over 4% of U.S. GDP, or around $1.1 trillion in recent measures. Even in smaller communities, every dollar spent on the arts tends to multiply as it spreads through related businesses: hotels, food, local craft suppliers, etc. This is what economists call the ripple effect or multiplier effect.

Community Vibrancy, Attraction, and Retention
Communities that value and invest in art often find they are more attractive to live, work, and raise families in. Creative events help reinforce civic pride, bring people together, and make the community feel special. That in turn helps retain talent (young people, creators, entrepreneurs) and can even attract investment.

Why Rendezvous Royale Isn’t Just a Week of Events — It’s an Investment

When we host Rendezvous Royale:

  • We elevate Cody’s profile regionally and nationally as a destination for western art and culture.
  • We strengthen connections between artists and patrons, which can lead to future commissions, visits, sales, and collaborations.
  • We boost local businesses (lodging, restaurants, shops), not just for one weekend, but throughout the week.
  • We provide educational and participatory opportunities that build skills, appreciation, and a broader base of support for art in all its forms.

So while we’re celebrating the colors, the textures, the stories, let’s also recognize we are strengthening economic foundations.

How You Can Participate / Support

To help maximize the impact of Rendezvous Royale:

  • Attend events, even just one or two. Every ticket, every meal, every walk through the galleries helps.
  • Purchase local art (originals, prints, small works) or auction pieces. Giving patronage is among the most direct support you can offer.
  • Spread the word: invite friends, share on social media, bring visitors. Books more hotel rooms, dinner reservations, etc.
  • Engage with educational components — workshops, lectures, studio tours. Investing in your understanding deepens appreciation and long‑term support.
  • Support local businesses that partner or sponsor parts of the program.

Looking Forward

Rendezvous Royale reminds us that art is not a luxury — it’s a core part of a thriving community. As we enjoy this week’s festivities, let’s honor both the aesthetics and the economics.

We hope you will join us in soaking up the art, supporting the artists, and celebrating how creative expression continues to shape, enrich, and sustain Cody.

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