Arts and the Recession

“While the recession is not impacting all communities in the state in the same way, for nonprofit arts organizations to cope with this situation and thrive in the future will require a deep understanding of both the current economic situation and the more profound trends in demographics, technology and consumer behavior that preceded and will extend beyond the recession.” Arts and Recession, WSAC, 2009.

 

Arts organizations across Washington state are recognizing that the current recession demands new thinking as well as leadership, planning, and adaptability. To better understand the impact of the recession, WSAC commissioned an analysis through Helicon Collaborative that included a survey and interviews of cultural organizations throughout the state. This report builds on findings of an earlier assessment of cultural organizations in the Puget Sound region.

 

In June the Washington State Arts Commission and ArtsFund conducted parallel studies which together measured the effects of the recession on cultural organizations across the entire state.

 

Key findings of the report, Arts and Recession: The Economic Recession’s Impact on Cultural Organizations in Washington State (PDF) include:

  • The recession is one of many challenges faced by arts organizations today. Those who are nimble and inventive in facing other challenges are better able to deal with the recession.
  • Most organizations saw declines in income last year and expect further declines in the future.  Attendance is expected to stay relatively steady, although ticket revenues are dropping – perhaps due to free or low-cost events.
  • Technology is helping organizations cut costs and realize efficiencies – such as for fundraising, marketing and sharing information.
  • Boards and core constituents are generous with time, money, and moral support.

 

On September 10, 2009 the Washington State Arts Commission and ArtsFund held an interactive conference call - Arts and the Recession Webinar (PDF). The webinar featured an online presentation and discussion on the effects of the recession on arts organizations across the state.

 

In February, Helicon Collaborative issued a report, which captured the evolving impacts of the recession on Puget Sound cultural groups, The Economic Recession's Impact on Cultural Organizations in the Puget Sound (PDF).

 

In December 2008, ArtsFund issued State of the Arts: Impacts of Current Economic Conditions on Puget Sound Region Arts Organizations (PDF).