Have the arts outpaced the demand -- nationally or regionally?

In the recent interview at Arena Stage, NEA chair Rocco Landesman stated quite bluntly that there are too many arts venues. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2011/02/11/AR2011021105534.html

Interestingly, DC theatre itself experienced a building boom in the early 21st century that seemed to echo that remark, as there were actually more seats than seemed to be interested theatre attendees.   Yet, real population growth will likely fill those seats over time, as DC attracts the most inclined arts audience:  lawyers and others with graduate education.

This should not let the arts manager relax.  The data shows that our % share of the American audience is dropping in almost every artistic expression. Why?  Is it that the arts are no longer interesting? Are they too expensive? Are they inconvenient?  Is it a generational shift due to the influx of digital creative endeavors? Is it a result of shifting demographics and cultural norms?  A complex combination of all of the above most likely.

Thus, the arts must engage their audiences at their basic human need -- connection -- and its intersection with each individual's unique aesthetic. Recognize the new economy and keep the arts accessible and affordable.  Meet the teleworkers and those on unusual schedules in their leisure time zones. It is time to use our creativity and think out of the box. The arts have been in 'reactive' mode since the advent of film and its evisceration of the theatre industry.  What holds the arts to the public -- our human need to create and engage with one another.  Live long and prosper.

The Contradictions of Society with Arts and Creativity

I find it astounding and illuminating how those in power in society, be they in media or politics, can purport a particular view yet fund or behave in a diametrically different manner.

The most obvious case in point is the emerging science of the importance of play and creativity in a child's development -- a critical factor to success in life, university and career.  (Mulitiple articles in the Washington Post, Wall Street Journal and New York Times demonstrate these facts.) The most creative pursuits in our immediate society are found within the arts -- theatre, dance, visual art, music, and writing.  Yes -- our society and our families MUST develop a creative core. 

AND, at the same time, we must put at risk the only national sign of support for such creativity:  the National Endowment for the Arts -- deemed perhaps problemmatic and definitely discretionary within a budgetary perspective.  Yet over 40% of NEA funding goes to local governments who directly fund the arts in each individual's community. So the message becomes "Go Team Creativity! We support you!  Just not with our national dollars".  

At the same time, there are billions of dollars in profits in negotiation within our National Football League.  At times the message is sad but clear, at least from the average US citizen and corporation's perspectives.