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Art: A Growing Business In the current economic times, people are continually searching for inexpensive alternatives to their normal entertainment and recreational activities. Fortunately for Phoenicians, this city offers many low cost or free things to do. Artlink, Inc. is a non-profit arts organization that promotes artists and events in downtown Phoenix. Most of the events are free. One of the most popular events that Artlink sponsors is First Friday art walk. According to Artlink's website, since it started in 1994 this has grown to be the largest monthly art walk in the United States. This event is free and includes over a hundred artists and galleries open to the public as well as a free shuttle service starting at the Phoenix Art Museum and live musicians and performers. "Artlink's First Fridays has succeeded in bringing people back to downtown Phoenix," Artlink's website states, "The event sees anywhere from 14-20,000 visitors monthly and grows exponentially each year." Thanks to volunteers and sponsors, the First Friday event brings thousands of people to the downtown Phoenix area and proves to be very beneficial to local businesses. The event is the first Friday of every month from 6 pm. until 10 p.m., but there are always open galleries and art shows in the art district that have proven to be an asset to downtown Phoenix. "The art community is growing," said Eric Finzi, who recently had his art show at Perihelion Arts in January and February. "[Phoenix] is fortunate to have this artwalk, not many cities do." Besides First Friday art walk, Artlink and its volunteers also sponsor Third Friday gallery tours and events and ArtDetour, a 22-year running annual self-guided walking tour. Many local businesses provide specials and opportunities during Artlink occasions. The Phoenix Children's Museum offers free admission on first Fridays and many restaurants and bars around the downtown area offer discounts. The events bring people from all over the city and the state and promote the downtown Phoenix. The Phoenix art community has flourished over the past several years and has helped the downtown community and businesses. The events, venues and artists are always changing and bringing
in new people and interests. More people participate in First Friday
art walk every month and Artlink is constantly working on new projects.
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