GIA Blog

The Economic Meltdown Funnies are a co-production of Jobs with Justice and the Institute for Policy Studies—Program on Inequality and the Common Good. Text by Chuck Collins & Nick Thorkelson, and drawings by Nick Thorkelson.

“In these times of economic crisis, it seems only rational that we should look back at our history to review what works if we want to create jobs and secure a strong economic legacy for future generations. When faced with … Continue reading →

“The arts are in trouble. Many of the institutions that make the Bay Area’s cultural scene so compelling are facing financial difficulties. Some are severely cutting programs; others are on the verge of closing. The arts are particularly vulnerable because … Continue reading →

Let’s take the suggestion of David Wonderling [letters, Feb. 1] and stop funding the arts until “the nation is once again flush with cash.” Beginning now, let all government agencies stop funding the arts: no teachers of music or art … Continue reading →

“The stock market may be sinking and unemployment rising, but the arts are holding their own-for now. Yes, endowments that ensure the future of the city’s major arts organizations have shrunk, along with the interest income they generate. Meanwhile, smaller … Continue reading →

“Now that Britain is officially in recession, will people start spending less money on culture? The conventional wisdom is that the arts don’t suffer during times of economic hardship because the need for escapism is greater than ever—and this is … Continue reading →

“But so far, at least, things don’t look as bad in Denver as in some other parts of the United States. Planning and fundraising for the $33 million Clyfford Still Museum and $90 million overhaul of Boettcher Concert Hall are … Continue reading →

“Arts groups in the Philadelphia area are beginning to feel the bite of the fiscal crisis, but a new survey demonstrates surprising resilience in ticket sales, subscriptions, and seasonal memberships at regional venues. There has, however, been a significant decline … Continue reading →

“Theaters and orchestras are shuttering. Media coverage of the arts is decreasing. 2Brandeis is closing the Rose and possibly selling off its paintings. You don’t need a weatherman to know which way the wind is blowing when it comes to … Continue reading →

As Senator Richard Durbin (D-IL) pointed out on the Senate floor yesterday, nearly all of the objections to the pending stimulus package are directed at a small number of programs that make up a fraction of 1 percent of the … Continue reading →