d” with the park. Perhaps the most important response was that 19% of visitors indicated that the performance they had attended was their first downtown cultural event. Though MMA did advertise, the survey showed that many participants had found out through social means. Over 50% indicated they had found out about the performance through word of mouth.
The project has catalyzed other investments in the downtown area. A hotel developed a property directly adjacent to the Art Garden, citing the public space as a significant amenity. Talks are also underway to develop another park downtown, and other buildings and organizations are investing in capital improvements. The biggest measure of success, though, lies in the fact that the park has brought together the entire Jackson community—something that was hoped for, but that could not be guaranteed or anticipated. One project that helped achieve this was created by conceptual artist Kate Browne, a New York artist, who made a piece called Cocoon Jackson. For her piece, Brown developed a community art-building and reflection process, paralleling a process she employed in other places with turbulent histories, including the Mississippi Delta and Mexico City. “Our first artist-led project brought people from marginalized communities physically (in a procession) from their neighborhoods to the museum and Art Garden where their artworks were incorporated into a large, beautifully lit installation,” said Bradley. “It provided great healing and brought a core of new people into regular programming at the museum.”