GIA Blog

“His campaign suggests he will focus on communities, education, and grass-roots organisations but there are many unanswered questions. Here we survey the policy areas where the new President is likely to take a stand. Unlike most American presidents, he writes … Continue reading →

Maryann Devine blogs on smArts & Culture: “We talked about how the recession is affecting the arts and what the future might hold. I conjectured that smaller and more non-traditional arts groups may have opportunities that arise because of the … Continue reading →

The steady flow of staff cutbacks, cash crunches, strikes, and season closings among arts organizations nationwide is beginning to take its toll on the zeitgeist. It feels, to Andrew Taylor anyway, that we could all use some completely useless silliness … Continue reading →

In 2007, Grantmakers in the Arts commissioned Four Short Plays: Four Big Ideas for the Council on Foundations Conference. Here’s a video of the song Program Officer, music and lyrics by Michael Friedman, for your enjoyment.

“As of today, more than 224,000 people have signed a petition asking President Obama to create a Secretary of the Arts. I signed the petition, but reservedly: At the federal level, I prefer the arts to stay depoliticized. What I … Continue reading →

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVE72Ae82Tw&hl=en&fs=1] One of the all-time great covers of Brother Can you Spare a Dime was recorded by Tom Waits in 1993, featured on this video with photos by Dorthea Lange and others. Written in 1931 by lyricist E.Y. “Yip” Harburg … Continue reading →

“In light of the economic downturn and in recognition of the tremendous pressures on the nonprofit sector, the Fund’s trustees have set a level course for 2009. In plain terms, what that means is that the Fund’s 2009 grants budget … Continue reading →

In late January GIA polled its 309 member organizations about their organization’s responses to the economic downturn. 117 (38%) members responded, which provides a healthy sample of the membership. Members reported their expected 2009 arts grantmaking would likely compare to … Continue reading →

“While a group of artists recently brainstormed ideas for upcoming shows, they hit on a brilliant way to cope with the current economic environment: a series of exhibits titled “Art4Barter.” “One of our first barters prior to the show was … Continue reading →

“The massive economic stimulus bill moving through Congress is being watched closely by arts groups across the country, including the Massachusetts Cultural Council. If the House version becomes law, the National Endowment for the Arts would get $50 million – … Continue reading →