Arts & Culture

From iconic music venues to film production, Seattle's creative economy is essential to our city's soul. Sara understands that supporting arts and culture isn't just about big initiatives - it's about listening to the day-to-day needs of working artists, venue operators, and cultural workers. She believes a thriving creative sector needs both bold vision and practical solutions that help artists and venues survive and thrive in our city.

WHAT SARA HAS DELIVERED

As Council President and former Economic Development Committee Chair, Sara has strengthened Seattle's creative economy at every level:

  • Successfully established the Seattle Film Commission to attract production jobs and revenue

  • Worked directly with music venues like El Corazón to create designated loading zones, making it possible for artists to actually load in their gear and perform

  • Saved the Seattle Channel's award-winning cultural and civic programming

  • Partnered with King County to open Harbor Island Studios, the region's first professional sound stage since 1996

  • Secured first-ever dedicated funding for both Film and Music Commissions

  • Engaged with the Washington Nightlife and Music Association to support Seattle's venue ecosystem

SARA’S VISION FORWARD

Seattle should be a city where artists and creative workers can build sustainable careers and venues can keep their doors open. Sara believes we must protect our cultural spaces while creating new opportunities in the creative economy. She'll continue working to:

  • Support the practical needs of working artists and music venues

  • Strengthen Seattle's position as a regional hub for film and television production

  • Keep Seattle's creative economy competitive with other major cities

  • Create pathways for creative professionals to build sustainable careers

  • Protect the independent venues and spaces that make Seattle's arts scene unique