ArtsLab

by Holly Sidford, on behalf of the National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy

Every year, approximately 11 percent of foundation giving–about $2.3 billion in 2009–is awarded to nonprofit arts and cultural institutions. The distribution of these funds is demonstrably out of balance with our evolving cultural landscape and with the changing demographics of our communities.

This report makes the case for changing arts and culture funding strategies. It suggests ways that all funders of the arts–regardless of their primary focus–can move toward more inclusive and responsive grantmaking. It is also an invitation to engage in a fresh field-wide conversation about the purpose and relevance of philanthropy in the arts today. Grantmakers in the Arts hopes the result of this reflection and discussion will be a more inclusive and dynamic cultural sector and, through the arts, a more equitable, fair and democratic world. The document may be retrieved at Grantmakers in the Arts.