FRANKFORT, Ky. – The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has designated Paducah as a member of its Creative Cities Network, making it the seventh City of Crafts and Folk Art. Paducah was one of three cities to be announced in November by UNESCO, growing the Creative Cities Network to 41 cities across the globe.

“Paducah’s rich infrastructure, along with its long-lasting tradition in fine craft, has placed the city as a mecca for artists specializing in quilting and fibers,” said Mike Mangeot, commissioner for the Kentucky Department of Travel and Tourism. “Being honored as a UNESCO City of Crafts and Folk Art will increase promotion of Paducah’s unique cultural offerings through the collaboration among artists globally.”

UNESCO promotes collaboration between cities through the innovative Creative Cities Network, establishing enhanced communication channels among art communities globally. The partnership between culturally affluent cities presents Paducah an opportunity to highlight assets like the National Quilt Museum and Yeiser Art Center, while further enhancing art education through the Paducah School of Art and the Artist in Residence and Relocation programs.

“This designation is a tremendous honor for Paducah and really the entire state and will focus worldwide attention on the incredible cultural richness of Paducah and in turn Kentucky,” said Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet Secretary Bob Stewart. “We are so proud of Paducah.”

UNESCO launched the Creative Cities Network in 2004 as an initiative to foster creative industries for sustainable development. Designation in UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network will help showcase Paducah’s dedication to culture and fine crafts on a global platform, establishing creativity as an essential element of economic and social development.

To learn more about UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network visit www.unesco.org.

The Kentucky Department of Travel and Tourism is an agency within the Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet, which promotes the Commonwealth as a travel destination. Tourism in Kentucky has an economic impact of more than $12.2 billion, supports about 174,000 jobs and generates more than $1.2 billion in taxes.

Source: Kentucky Department of Travel and Tourism