Author: Neil, J. Meredith

Publication Year: 1977

Media Type: Report

Summary:

Limitations in subsidies for the arts cannot be explained adequately by a lack of seriousness on the part of government entities. Particularly at the federal level, there has been a firm conviction that the private sector should and would provide the necessary patronage.

Abstract:

Limitations in subsidies for the arts cannot be explained adequately by a lack of seriousness on the part of government entities. Particularly at the federal level, there has been a firm conviction that the private sector should and would provide the necessary patronage.

Today's financial crisis primarily affects the major art museums. Persisting in their long traditions of private, localistic, and snobbish attitudes and policies, they have failed to respond effectively to the changes in available and potential private patronage. However, if the major art museums wish to gain sustaining national support, they must follow the example of other leading arts institutions in the older urban centers and make themselves into demonstrably national institutions, not merely in the quality of their collections, but in their operations. When they accomplish that admittedly difficult and even painful change, there is persuasive historical justification for the belief that federal subsidies will be available to meet their needs. (p. 575-576)

CONTENTS
1. Traditional patronage patterns.
2. Impact of the Great Depression.
3. The cultural boom.
4. The National Endowment for the Arts.
5. Special fiscal problems of art museums.
6. Conclusions.

Arts & Intersections:

Categories: Funding