Sistema Global has released a comprehensive literature reivew of El Sistema and related programs worldwide. The Review is an inclusive document and represents a wide range of perspectives; not necessarily the views of El Sistema leadership.
Grantmakers in the Arts
by Steve
Rhode Island School of Design president John Maeda writes for Scientific American:
In DaVinci’s time when expertise in art and science had not yet matured to the polarized state in which they exist today, they coexisted naturally. Of course, science’s level of sophistication back then was quite different. But from where I sit as the president of the Rhode Island School of Design, it is clear to me that even current practices in scientific research have much to gain by involving artists in the process early and often. Artists serve as great partners in the communication of scientific research; moreover, they can serve as great partners in the navigation of the scientific unknown.
by Tommer
The Analysis of Policies, Practices, and Programs for Advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is a useful tool for foundation staff, leadership, and other members of the philanthropy community who want to take action to advance DEI.
by Tommer
Media Impact Funders has launched a new website which includes a suite of new tools including searchable data maps, a searchable media database of funder-supported projects, and an entire section devoted to assessing the impact of media.
by Tommer
If a wealthy person writes a large check to a worthy cultural organization, does that constitute an act of leadership? It's an interesting question....
by Steve
From Alexis Clements on Hyperallergic:
In August and September I facilitated a class focused on labor issues within the arts. Specifically, we looked at how and when artists receive or don’t receive payment for their work, and the broader implications of compensating artists. We looked at examples in the US going as far back as the 1850s, but focused most of our attention on recent history and contemporary practices. And because there was such a great mix of students in the class working across fields, as expected, I ended up learning quite a bit myself during the class. Below are five of the things I took away from the class, though there were many others as well.
by Tommer
The Washington Post provides a striking interactive map showing income and education levels by individual zip codes. See where the money is from space.
by Steve
From Tara Bahrampour, writing for The Washington Post:
Doris Lessing, the freewheeling Nobel Prize-winning writer on racism, colonialism, feminism and communism who died Sunday at age 94, was prolific for most of her life. But five years ago, she said the writing had dried up. “Don’t imagine you’ll have it forever,” she said, according to one obituary. “Use it while you’ve got it because it’ll go; it’s sliding away like water down a plug hole.”