LUMINEX Art and Technology Exhibition 2.0:
Economic and Fiscal Impacts
Stimulating a local economy through art and culture
Public Art Does More Than Activate City Streets—It Generates Real Economic Benefits
When thousands of visitors gather for a cultural event, the economic benefits extend well beyond the experience itself. This study by Beacon Economics examines the economic and fiscal impacts of LUMINEX Art and Technology Exhibition 2.0, a free, one-night digital art exhibition held in Downtown Los Angeles. Featuring immersive installations across a five-block route, the event attracted an estimated 24,202 attendees and generated nearly $900,000 in direct spending at local restaurants, retailers, hotels, and other businesses.
The analysis finds that attendee spending supported approximately $1.1 million in total economic output, $646,000 in value added, and $82,000 in state and local tax revenues across Los Angeles County. Nearly 90% of the economic output occurred within the City of Los Angeles, with additional benefits reaching businesses and workers throughout the county. The findings demonstrate how arts and cultural programming can stimulate local commerce, support employment, and strengthen the economic case for investing in vibrant public spaces.
Key Highlights
A Significant Visitor Draw
LUMINEX 2.0 attracted an estimated 24,202 attendees, generating approximately $896,000 in direct spending at local businesses.
Economic Activity Beyond the Event
Attendee expenditures supported $1.1 million in economic output, $407,000 in labor income, and eight annualized jobs across Los Angeles County.
Generating Public Revenue
The event supported approximately $82,000 in state and local tax revenues, with 89% of total economic output occurring within the City of Los Angeles.
Expert Insights
Niree Kodaverdian
“Public art can be a meaningful economic development tool. LUMINEX demonstrates how a free cultural experience can bring thousands of people into an urban district, generate spending at surrounding businesses, and create measurable economic benefits for the broader community.”
~ Niree Kodaverdian PhD, Research Manager, Beacon Economics
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