Arts Forum: Group Report #2

Group B, facilitated by Brad Erickson of Theatre Bay Area, discussed the four questions and came up with equal solutions and commentary. This group had more of a focus on larger organizations and the theatre community as a whole.

The city of Oakland recently canceled a plan to cut funding for their local arts programs and organizations. City leadership was surprised by the large amount of visible support from the community. Members of this group re-iterated the importance of the city having a role in sustaining arts organizations.

The group also recognized that pre-existing networks and structures, such as public library space, volunteer groups, and organizational members, can lead to further support. Individual artists are valued, but the artists themselves can feel isolated from the process. One group member reminded the gathering of the basic principles of human management: The organization and people need to be aligned in order to power your mission.

• How can organizations move forward in development and outreach work in the current economic climate?
  
• Can the internet or other social mediums be used for more effective advocacy, as was the case in Oakland?

View the complete 26 page report by clicking here. (PDF)