ROCHESTER, N.Y. — A new national ranking is highlighting the arts scenes across the state. Rochester ranked in the top 20 for large arts vibrant cities. That's according to the SMU DataArts arts vibrancy index.

The index combines data from nonprofit arts and cultural organizations with data for the communities that they're in to identify factors that affect the health and sustainability of arts organizations across the nation. Two Rochester artists are sharing their thoughts on the ranking. 

A decade ago, Magnus Apollo didn’t consider himself an artist. But After years of immersing himself in the Rochester art community, he’s now one of the city’s top creators. 

“It’s one of the most supportive communities I’ve ever seen," said Apollo. "If you have an idea, you’ll have the art coming together and a team of people just as excited as you are."

That strong community Apollo believes is part of what led to Rochester’s ranking in the top 20 on the SMU DataArts arts vibrancy index. The ranking is based on supply, demand, public support for arts and culture along with population size.

“You can’t drive anywhere in the city without seeing something that catches your eye," said Apollo. 

For mural artist Shawn Dunwoody, it’s an exciting time to be in Rochester’s art scene. A native Rochesterarian, Dunwoody saw how the city was affected after companies like Kodak and Xerox went through layoffs and changes. He says what emerged is a new era for artists. 

“What it did was lift the veil on the creative arts space happening here," said Dunwoody. 

The arts vibrancy index ranking can be used to show government leaders the impact the arts have on the city and be used when applying for arts funding. Both artists say they hope this ranking paints Rochester in a new light and shows its community that art is all around. 

“Nashville is to music as Rochester is to visual media," said Apollo. 

Syracuse and Ithaca also ranked in the top 10 on the list for medium-sized arts-vibrant cities.