Americans for the Arts | News

“United We Serve” and the ARTS

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 14:33:12 EDT

Watch First Lady Michelle Obama call to service on serve.gov

Americans for the Arts encourages individuals, arts organizations, and artists to get involved in their communities this summer through President Obama’s “United We Serve” volunteer campaign. Taking place from June 22 to September 11 of this year, President and Mrs. Obama’s national service campaign calls on American citizens from all walks of life to volunteer in their communities. The leadership and excitement of this national campaign should generate an unprecedented number of volunteers giving back to their communities.

Americans for the Arts is planning to document many of the powerful stories that will take place this summer to demonstrate how the arts serve communities across the country. We will be collecting photographs, videos, and stories of your experiences and your accomplishments to share with the White House, the media, and your fellow volunteers. Check back to http://serve.artsusa.org soon for uploading instructions and up to date information. In the meantime let's get the dialogue started. Visit the Americans for the Arts blog and share some ways you think you could volunteer for the arts in your community?

Go to http://www.serve.gov to post your volunteer opportunities.

America's Best Public Art Projects Recognized at Arts Conference

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 15:38:15 EDT

Forty of the best public art works in the United States, including projects from 32 cities in 15 states, were recognized at the 2009 Americans for the Arts annual convention held in Seattle from June 18–20. The works were chosen from more than 300 entries across the country.

At the annual Public Art Year in Review conference session on June 20, two independent public art experts—artists Janet Echelman and Mildred Howard—presented their choices for the most exemplary, innovative permanent or temporary public art works created or debuted in 2008. This is the ninth year that Americans for the Arts, the nation's leading nonprofit organization for advancing the arts in America, has recognized public art works. The artists and commissioning organizations involved in creating and citing these public art works will receive letters of recognition and congratulations from Americans for the Arts President and CEO Robert L. Lynch. Click here to see the 40 public art works selected for the Year in Review. (65KB, pdf)

Click here to read the full press release.

Six Awarded for Excellence in Arts Leadership

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 18:50:35 EDT

Americans for the Arts announced the recipients of the 2009 Leadership Awards today at its annual convention in Seattle. The awards honor individuals and organizations that exhibit outstanding leadership qualities and a demonstrable dedication to the arts and arts advocacy. This year's recipients are:

Bruce W. Davis, Michael Newton Award
Randy Engstrom, Emerging Leader Award
Victoria Hamilton, Selina Roberts Ottum Award
Buster Simpson, Public Art Network Award
Sheila Smith, Alene Valkanas State Arts Advocacy Award
Big Thought, Arts Education Award

Joyce Foundation Renews Support

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 10:18:02 EDT

Applications now available. Click here for application materials.

Americans for the Arts is pleased to announce that Chicago-based Joyce Foundation has renewed its support for Americans for the Arts' Professional Development Fund for Emerging Arts Leaders of Color. A total of five Joyce Fellows from the Great Lakes region (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin) will be selected to participate in this program.

Fellows will receive stipends of $3,000 to support their attendance at the 2009 National Arts Marketing Project Conference, Arts Advocacy Day 2010, and the 2010 Americans for the Arts Convention. In addition, fellows will have special opportunities to meet field leaders, work alongside mentors, and receive individualized career coaching. An additional 5 fellows will be selected in 2010.

Download application materials and eligibility information here, or for more information contact Stephanie Evans at leadership@artsusa.org or by phone at 202-371-2830 ext 2036.

Arts Ed Report Card Shows 'Mediocre' Achievement

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 17:53:45 EDT

Yesterday, for the first time in 11 years, the federal government released a national report card on achievement in the arts among eighth graders. This long-awaited report finds that since 1997, our nation's students have not made significant progress in developing their skills and knowledge in the arts. The National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP) in the Arts report is the only continuing, national measure of academic achievement in America's schools.

A nationally representative sample of over 7,900 eighth grade students from public and private schools participated in the NAEP Arts Assessment in 2008. Students were measured on their ability to create and respond to the visual arts; whereas, the study scaled back on music questions and only measured a student's ability to respond and identify music. Unfortunately, theater and dance skills were not assessed at all due to budgetary and data collection constraints, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

As reported today in The New York Times, Christian Science Monitor, and USAToday, the findings are "mediocre," "lackluster," and "may make America's arts instructors kind of blue." Not a great report card. However, new U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan gave a strong reaction in support of arts education, "This Arts Report Card should challenge all of us to make K-12 arts programs more available to America's children ...We can and should do better for America's students."

As you may know, Americans for the Arts has been leading a national effort to increase federal funding and to strengthen the role of the arts in the classroom through legislative efforts in Congress. We have published a set of legislative recommendations that calls for changes to the problematic No Child Left Behind Act. Our schools need greater support for arts education - take two minutes to send a message to your Congressional delegation, please visit our E-Advocacy Center. Stay connected to important news and activities to encourage our elected officials to respond to this challenge and do better for America's students by becoming an arts advocate today!

House Appropriations Subcommittee OKs $15M Increase for NEA

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 10:58:01 EDT

The House Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, which sets the initial funding level for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), approved a $15 million increase for the NEA in its FY 2010 spending bill, setting it on a path towards final House consideration. Currently funded at $155 million, this increase would bring the agency's budget to $170 million.

In a statement, Chairman Norm Dicks (D-WA) referenced the Arts Advocacy Day hearings the subcommittee held as demonstrating that "the endowments are vital for preserving and encouraging America's arts and cultural heritage." On Arts Advocacy Day, Americans for the Arts presented a panel of witnesses before Chairman Dicks' Appropriations Subcommittee calling for a significant increase in funding for the NEA. Watch video from that panel here.

The FY 2010 Interior Appropriations bill will next go to full committee and then to the House floor for final consideration where your help may be needed to defend against floor amendments attempting to cut this increase. Visit the online Arts Action Center to contact your members of Congress.

What's Your #1 Priority for the NEA Chairman?

Thu, 14 May 2009 14:04:08 EDT

As many of you heard yesterday, Broadway producer Rocco Landesman was nominated as the next chairman for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA).

What would be your #1 priority for the newly-nominated NEA Chairman? Share your thoughts on ArtsBlog.

Arts in America Series: An Introduction

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 14:51:48 EDT

Today the University of California Press in association with CORE: and Ovation TV hosted a panel discussion and book signing to consider the issues documented in Bill Ivey's book, Arts, Inc.: How Greed and Neglect Have Destroyed Our Cultural Rights. Gaynor Stachan-Chun, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Ovation TV, moderated the discussion with Mr. Ivey, Agnes Gund and Robert Lynch President and CEO of Americans for the Arts.

The discussion centered on the value of creativity, how we pay for the arts, and what leaders might do to help the arts. As Americans for the Arts reported in February the arts account for 5.7 million jobs in America and produce $166.2 billion dollars in economic impact a year. Rob Bettmann writing for Ovation TV said, "According to the GM website, that company employs just 252,000 - and that's globally - not just in the United States. Why are we not spending more to save arts institutions? Given the many compelling priorities facing the administration such as the economy and Healthcare reform, and the competition for funding, I think public discussion about the arts, arts education and America's cultural system is critical."

Listen to the videos of the discussion on YouTube and then join in the discussion on Ovation's Blog.

Rocco Landesman Nominated to Lead NEA

Wed, 13 May 2009 18:47:19 EDT

President Barack Obama has nominated Rocco Landesman, president of Jujamcyn Theaters, to serve as Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts. The White House’s official statement on his nomination noted that “[h]is career has been a hybrid of commercial, philanthropic, and purely artistic engagements.” Americans for the Arts spoke to NPR about the nomination, listen here.

“I am excited to see that President Obama has made a bold choice in selecting Rocco Landesman as Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts. His nomination represents an important opportunity to advance the mission of the NEA to provide access to the arts for all. As evidenced in his work as a theatrical producer, Landesman has an entrepreneurial spirit that will allow the NEA to spotlight the broad spectrum of the arts in America to the nation and to the world. The nomination also represents President Obama’s continued dedication to bring all of the arts to all Americans, and his understanding of the critical role the arts play in reflecting our shared values and the strength of our diversity and democracy,” said Robert L. Lynch, president and CEO of Americans for the Arts. Read the full statement.

2010 Budget Addresses Arts

Thu, 07 May 2009 12:40:03 EDT

Today the White House released the Obama Administration’s budget recommendations for FY 2010. Included in the budget is $161 million in funding for the National Endowment for the Arts and $38.16 million for Arts in Education program at the Department of Education. Americans for the Arts President and CEO Robert L. Lynch issued the following statement:

“As the White House works to jump start the economy and re-prioritize the nation’s domestic spending initiatives, the Administration’s FY 2010 budget proposal to increase support for the National Endowment for the Arts provides another encouraging nod of confidence in the role the arts play in America’s future. The Administration’s request of $161 million would take the NEA to its highest funding level in 15 years and will help continue the upward trend of budgetary growth that Congress established several years ago. In contrast to the previous Administration, this year’s budget includes funding for the Arts in Education program at the Department of Education at $38.16 million. We hope that Congress will build on these initial budget requests to secure even higher funding levels to address the needs of the arts and arts education community.”

Contact your legislator to voice your support for the Obama Administration’s FY 2010 increases in arts and cultural funding here, Arts Action Center.

Arts Funding Response and Readiness Kit

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 12:12:15 EST

Americans for the Arts has developed an online toolkit to help arts organizations respond effectively in times of crisis. The Arts Funding Response and Readiness Kit provides current information, key messaging, communications and advocacy strategies, and the research you need to make the case for keeping the arts in your community.

In light of the current economic crisis, Americans for the Arts will host a Webinar on December 10, Leadership in Tough Times. Participants will discuss the strategic questions that arts leaders must consider in challenging times—cutting grants, organizations going out of business, talking about the value of the arts during an economic downturn. For more information and to register, visit http://eo2.commpartners.com/users/afta/.

Americans for the Arts Action Fund Statement on the 2008 Election

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 10:44:16 EST

Americans for the Arts Action Fund President and CEO Robert L. Lynch gave the following statement on the results of Election Day:

"The historic election of Sen. Barack Obama to be the 44th President of the United States will have tremendous impact on the nation's arts community, public schools, and creative workforce. His commitment to arts and arts education on the campaign trail is just a preview of what his administration can accomplish. President-elect Obama demonstrates the leadership and vision to advance the arts in America through investing in more arts education in public schools, increased funding for the National Endowment for the Arts, promoting cultural diplomacy, and supporting artists rights.

Yesterday's election results also expanded the base of support for the arts in Congress, which will help move arts and arts education initiatives through the legislative process. Initiatives that will fuel innovation and creativity are key to our economic recovery and global competitiveness. A new report issued last month by The Conference Board, 'Ready to Innovate,' touts the importance of arts education in building the 21st century workforce. The arts are good for business, good for the economy, and good for the spirit."

For more information visit, www.ArtsVote.org.

Disney Little Einsteins™ Appear in New PSAs

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 12:31:41 EST

Americans for the Arts, The NAMM Foundation and the Ad Council are debuting new ads in the “The Arts. Ask for More." national public service advertising campaign. Created in collaboration with Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment, the new television PSAs help inspire children to play music, dance and draw together with their family and friends by featuring characters from the popular Disney Little Einsteins™ engaged in the arts. To view the ads, visit the PSA campaign website here.

Merger with Business Committee for the Arts

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 10:54:20 EDT

Americans for the Arts and Business Committee for the Arts (BCA) announced today that BCA will merge its operations

Luis Castro, Philip Sanchez and Daniel Osheyack, Time Warner Inc; Christopher Forbes (second from right) at the 2007 THE BCA TEN

with Americans for the Arts, creating the largest-ever advocacy group for the arts in the private sector. The partnership will further enable the organization to generate increased private-sector support for the arts and arts education by engaging and educating business leaders nationwide on the economic impact and value of the arts in business and community settings.

More information about the merger is available on the Americans for the Arts website. To find out more about the Business Committee for the Arts visit the website at http://www.bcainc.org/.

Closing Bell Rung at NASDAQ

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 21:21:16 EDT

Americans for the Arts President and CEO Bob Lynch, Board of Directors Chair Steve Spiess and National Arts Award honoree Joan W. Harris rang the closing bell at NASDAQ on Tuesday, October 7. NASDAQ welcomed Americans for the Arts in celebration of National Arts and Humanities Month and the 2008 National Arts Awards. At the event, Bob McCooey,senior vice president of New Listings and Capital Market at NASDAQ OMX, said "The arts are a vital resource for stimulating economic growth for our communities and our businesses." Watch the video of the Ringing of the Closing Bell.

2008 National Arts Awards Presented

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 17:37:24 EDT

Americans for the Arts presented the 2008 National Arts Awards on Monday evening in New York City. The awards recognize artists and arts leaders who exhibit exemplary national leadership and whose work demonstrates extraordinary artistic achievement. Congratulations to this year's honorees:

Dame Julie Andrews, Lifetime Achievement Award
Joan W. Harris, Frederick R. Weisman Award for Philanthropy in the Arts
Yoko Ono, Kitty Carlisle Hart Award for Outstanding Contributions to the Arts
Phil Ramone, Arts Advocacy Award
Kehinde Wiley, Young Artist Award for Artistic Excellence
J. Barry Griswell, The Principal Financial Group, Corporate Citizenship in the Arts Award

For more information, visit www.AmericansForTheArts.org/naa/.

National Arts and Humanities Month Kicks Off

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 08:55:23 EDT

October is National Arts and Humanities Month, and each year, more than 10,000 communities and millions of people celebrate. What are your plans? On the NAHM website you can find planning toolkits, as well as free downloads of the NAHM logo and Web stickers that can easily be placed on websites, blogs, and social network user profiles. Be sure to check out the NAHM Event Map to find what's going on in your area.

You can also become a fan of NAHM on the social networking website Facebook. Americans for the Arts is encouraging our members, other arts groups, and arts lovers to join Facebook to show support and promote the arts and humanities during NAHM. On the page, you can view videos and photos from NAHM events around the country or post your own. Be sure to leave a message on the Wall and read NAHM's twitter feed for the latest news. Visit Facebook to join today.

Americans for the Arts Collecting Emergency Relief Funds

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 17:20:55 EDT

In response to the devastation in Texas and Louisiana due to recent hurricane activity, Americans for the Arts is collecting donations to its Emergency Relief Fund. Funds will be used to provide assistance to local arts service organizations located in or serving those areas most affected by hurricane damage to help them rebuild the arts in their communities. We have been in touch with our constituents in the affected areas and will continue to monitor their situation as they recover from these storms and assess the damage to the arts in their communities. At this time, the application process for emergency relief funds is not open, and will only be opened when enough resources have been collected and are available to distribute.

Please help Americans for the Arts collect donations to the Emergency Relief Fund by including this information in your next e-newsletter or communication to your constituents.

Visit the Emergency Relief Fund section of our website to donate now.

2008 Public Art Year in Review Announced

Sun, 22 Jun 2008 13:48:18 EDT

On Sunday, Americans for the Arts announced the 45 selections for the 2008 Public Art Year in Review, which celebrate the most successful, innovative, and creative public art projects. Presented by curators Jody Pinto and Ted Landsmark, the winning submissions were selected out of a pool of over 200 and showcased during the closing general session at the Americans for the Arts annual convention in Philadelphia. The 2008 Public Art Year in Review CD is now available for purchase in Americans for the Arts Store, and includes a flash version of the original presentation along with detailed information about each artist and the winning projects.

Arts Leaders Honored at Annual Convention

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 17:08:49 EDT

Americans for the Arts announced the recipients of the 2008 Leadership Awards today at its annual convention in Philadelphia. The awards honor individuals and organizations that exhibit outstanding leadership qualities and a demonstrable dedication to the arts and arts advocacy. This year’s celebrated recipients included:

George Irwin—recipient of the Selina Roberts Ottum Award for making a meaningful contribution to the arts through local arts leadership.
Julia Kirt—recipient of the Emerging Leader Award for her innovative thinking, a commitment to the advancement of the arts and exemplary leadership.
Joan Adams Mondale—recipient of the Public Art Network Award for her creative contributions and commitment in the field of public art.
Marilyn Moosnick—recipient of the Michael Newton Award for leadership in united arts fundraising for efforts to raise money for multiple community arts institutions.
The New Victory Theater—recipient of the Arts Education Award for changing public education through the arts, and producing the visible results to be seen as a national leader in the field of arts education.
Judith Kaufman Weiner—recipient of the Alene Valkanas State Arts Advocacy Award for affecting the political landscape through arts advocacy efforts at the state level.

Peggy Amsterdam also received the Ray Hanley Innovation Award for her outstanding contribution to arts and culture in Philadelphia. Congratulations to all the winners who continue to inspire us with their passion and perseverance. Additional information on the honorees is available in the Press Room.