A multi-million dollar grant is going toward reviving Oklahoma arts as supporters accepted $10 million in ARPA money that they say could transform the state's arts industry. The executive director of the Oklahoma Arts Council said during the pandemic, funding was lost. As people were separated, many art forms suffered.Get the latest news stories of interest by clicking here."This money is restorative to help just mend part of the loss, but it’s also an opportunity of a historic investment so that these arts nonprofits can provide programming and bring back jobs, bring back expansion, experiences and arts education, arts access all over the state," said Amber Sharples, the executive director of Oklahoma Arts Council.Gov. Kevin Stitt was also there to celebrate and recognize the importance of art."I believe creativity is the ultimate expression of our freedoms," Stitt said. "Creative people are drawn to creative places."These funds plus Oklahoma's long list of A-list artists could jump the state to be in the top 10 for artists."This will be a historic investment to make Oklahoma more competitive for people to move here, stay here and get great talent," Sharples said.She said the funds will help all artists, from music to theatre to jewelers and welders. >> Download the KOCO 5 app "This helps everything from small town, agricultural festivals that have artists and musicians that come, this helps exhibitions and opportunities for film, visual arts, music, programs at schools," Sharples said. The arts council said they hope Oklahomans continue to show up and support all forms of art. Top HeadlinesLaw enforcement investigates possible double homicide in northwestern Oklahoma town of FreedomOklahoma City Zoo Amphitheatre announces first round of concerts since upgradesOJ Simpson, one-time football legend acquitted of murder charges, dies at 76'I'm not giving up': Maryland woman's social media helps catch mom's killerWitness' tip led to discovery of body buried in Oklahoma City backyard, police say