Building Community and Economic Growth Through Art: A case Study of Xpand Fest
Overall Program Impact
01 — Background and Inspiration
Xpand Fest was inspired by the desire to localize the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) created by the United Nations and bring them to life in a tangible way within our community. The vision was to create a vibrant arts festival in Asheville, NC, that celebrated diversity, fostered creativity, and reinvested in the local creative economy. By aligning global goals with local actions, the festival aimed to spark conversations and drive meaningful change.
02 — Project Details
Xpand Fest (2017 - 2019) was a one-day, free street festival held in the South Slope—an up-and-coming creative area in downtown Asheville, historically a Black business district. The event combined music, arts, educational talks, giveback projects, nonprofit booths, kids' activities, and sponsors to create an inclusive and impactful community celebration. Through this diverse programming, the festival empowered individuals and organizations to take actionable steps toward a sustainable and inclusive future while showcasing the vibrant culture and creativity of the region.
03 — Creative Process
My approach was to design an inclusive festival experience that highlighted the community's diverse voices and creativity while demonstrating the arts' role as a powerful driver of economic growth. This process was deeply informed by the Sustainable Development Goals, which served as a framework for fostering equity and sustainability. Beyond the event itself, Xpand Fest led to the creation of several lasting community groups and clubs that continue to make a positive impact today. Every element, from programming to partnerships, was curated to connect people, foster equity, and generate meaningful economic benefits for local creatives. The impact of Xpand Fest extended beyond the event itself, with several community groups and clubs formed during the festival continuing to thrive and create lasting change to this day.
04- Conclusion
Xpand Fest was more than just a festival; it was a catalyst for change, fueled by the collective effort of over 300 staff and volunteers who contributed to its success and mission. By bringing together diverse voices and aligning global goals with local actions, the event fostered creativity, equity, and sustainability in the Asheville community. With over $300,000 raised and 95% reinvested to strengthen the local creative economy, the festival not only supported but amplified Asheville’s cultural heartbeat. Through the work of 500+ artists and creatives who were highlighted and compensated, Xpand Fest made a profound cultural impact. With 12,000+ attendees over three years, the event sparked vibrant community engagement, demonstrating the lasting power of collaboration and the arts in driving meaningful social and economic progress. The impact of Xpand Fest lives on through the groups and initiatives it inspired, proving that together, we can build a more connected and sustainable future.
