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POLK COUNTY—Recently, leading research center SMU DataArts out of Dallas recognized Polk County for its vibrant arts scene, ranking it 24th among the top 30 most arts-vibrant rural counties nationwide. Polk and Tyrell counties were the only two counties in the state to make the list.

The counties featured in the report all scored within the top 5 percent nationally, according to the Arts Vibrancy Index, and are classified as rural by the U.S. Census Bureau. The report emphasized various characteristics that set these top-ranked rural counties apart and highlighted Polk County’s numerous small and mid-sized organizations that actively support the arts.

One important characteristic mentioned in the report is the influx of visitors due to the county’s natural beauty or significant landmarks, which supports a higher-than-average number of arts organizations and artists relative to the local population. 

Polk County’s recognition is a testament to its thriving arts community and the support for organizations like the Tryon Fine Arts Center, Tryon Painters & Sculptors, Tryon Arts & Crafts School, and more. 

To read the full report, visit culturaldata.org