Recession is crucial time to have heart for the arts

Recent decreases in funding for the arts have dealt a major blow to our cultural foundation. At least 59 percent of arts organizations polled in a November 2008 online survey noted a decrease in total revenues since November 2007. In the same survey, 27 percent reported a reduction in program offerings in response to the tough economic climate.

It is not just the arts jobs that have been lost. Art is the common thread that binds us all. It reflects our heritage, helps us relate and communicate with others and improves our quality of life.

The arts are not, and have never been, a luxury of our choosing. Arts are the fundamental definer of our local, national and international culture. Now more than ever, we need a greater sense of purpose in our lives.

History shows us that it was during difficult times that the creativity and innovation of arts helped define a better tomorrow. The vibrant art of jazz emerged and flourished during the segregated times of World War I. For generations, theater has provided a reflection of who we are and told the diverse story of our shared history and our hopeful tomorrow. These are the direct links that we cannot easily forget. Artists, inventors, entrepreneurs, political leaders and technology innovators cite an artistic influence as a key part of their success.

Now is the time to acknowledge and support the arts right here in Atlanta. This begins with you. Consider several simple ways to engage yourself and those around you:

Ask if your employer will match the ticket revenue you spend on arts organizations. If you love the symphony, theater or ballet, ask if your company will match and donate the dollar amount you paid for your tickets. This is a cost-effective way for companies to support the causes their employees care about. It is also a way to influence your company’s philanthropy efforts, so you now can have a stronger voice in those decisions.

Give an online donation to your favorite arts organization. If enough people give just a bit extra, it can help stem the loss of important artistic programming.

Get out and experience the arts in Atlanta. Our instincts tell us to retreat during tough times. Don’t let the economy get the best of you. You will find the arts can be transformative, take you to another place and offer you new and valuable connections to your community.

Volunteer with your favorite arts organization. They need your helping hand as budgets and staff positions are being trimmed.

Remind your elected officials about the importance of arts funding.

Funding for the arts per capita in Georgia is the second to last in the United States, not unlike the level of our SAT scores. The arts affect each of our political leaders and the economic vitality of the communities they serve.

During these difficult times, we must continue to innovate and express ourselves creatively. There is no better time than right now to stand up for the arts.

Lisa Cremin is the director of the Metropolitan Atlanta Arts Fund.