One solution to an ailing economy: more money to the arts
Both France and Germany have increased spending in the arts.
In both instances the money will go towards supporting capital projects (completion and expansions of major museums) as well as a variety of other purposes (much of the money being sent for dispersal at a more local level).
These articles are by no means extensive, but it made me think: what is it about European culture versus American culture that, despite tough economic times, sees the value in making large contributions to the arts?
In America, we see major arts institutions (particularly museums) contemplating selling portions of their collections to meet their budgets and fund their overhead. These sales will directly impact their cultural relevance (in the wrong direction). In the long run, these sales will (almost assuredly and irreversibly) diminish the importance of the museum. (Unless a wealthy board member offers to buy the works as a ‘loan’ and then let them remain in the collection… not every institutuion has an “Eli Broad” figure though).
How can we as a country work towards fostering true value for the arts (across the board) and understanding of their importance to our identity and position in the world?
