If you think the arts are all about fun, you're right.

But a new study by Americans for the Arts show they also contribute more than $10 million to Marathon County's economy and a whopping $418 million to the state's.

Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton spoke in Wausau earlier today at the Grand Theater about the study.

She says the arts are incredibly important in creating growth in any community.

"They're also serving to animate this community and they serve as sort of a magnet for people and businesses who are willing to put their shoulders to the wheel," Lt. Governor Lawton said.

The Arts and Economic Prosperity III study also showed the arts created more than 300 jobs in Marathon County and 15,000 in the state.