If it hadn't been for her theater group, Pat Turner Pulitzer would have dropped out of high school. Turner Pulitzer grew up with many family problems, including six siblings who were always in trouble.

"High school theater was my safety net," she said. "I wasn't a good student. But I hung on, because I had a theater commitment."

Turner Pulitzer shared how art saved her at the first Wyoming Arts Summit on Friday. The conference aimed to teach community leaders and businesses how arts can create a higher quality of life for citizens, diversify the economy, increase revenue and attract better employees.

To create a strong arts program, it's crucial to ask what the community wants, whether it's a country concert or a symphony, said a panel of experts.

"There's a lot of talk right now about small towns trying to find their 'inner Austin'," said panelist Stuart Rosenfeld. "We all want creative communities, because it's what people want."

As president of Research Technology Strategies Inc., Rosenfeld specializes in showing communities strategies for improving their economies. Rosenfeld said research shows cities such as Austin, Texas, attract the 25- to 34-year-old age group because of the amenities and activities offered.

A creative community is a big draw for companies that want to relocate, he added. A wide range of arts activities catches the eye of young professionals, and it also builds a foundation for keeping them from moving away.

Panelist and classical guitarist Robert Bluestone agreed. But it's important that arts groups are able to justify their missions and goals, he said.

"Creativity is the currency of the 21st century," Bluestone said. "We have to understand what the arts can do."

Friday's sessions also highlighted the importance of arts education, and research showing the positive impacts of participating in the arts.

Dana Gioia, chairman for the National Endowment of the Arts, said research shows those involved in the arts take more active roles in their communities. Research also shows that creative communities tend to have lower crime rates and happier citizens.

"When you get into economics, everything is dollars and cents," Gioia said. "The purpose of culture is to insist some things are beyond price."

Reach Jasa Santos at (307) 266-0593 or at Jasa.Santos@casperstartribune.net.