From museums to concert halls to theaters, successful strategies of the past are no longer sufficient. Even before health, political, and social crises of recent years, arts leaders were grappling with how to succeed amidst seismic external shifts (demographic, economic, technological) and changes in the very nature of art-making, art-sharing, and art appreciation. At the same time, many institutions were already burdened by unsustainable financial structures, outmoded managerial practices and the responsibility to serve larger, more demanding, and diverse audiences. As the essential link between artist and audience, organizations have had to adapt rapidly and emphatically in order to thrive, an imperative that has now become a matter of survival. In this class, we examine best current practices in the not-for profit arts sector and consider the kinds of radical approaches that might be necessary for the future.
Taking the perspective of the CEO, Chairman of the Board, and Artistic Director, students will learn about advancing artistic excellence and creative innovation while expanding audiences and achieving financial goals. We will survey settings in the not-for-profit performing and visual arts. Among the topics explored will be governance and management, serving multiple stakeholders, managing fiscal and creative tradeoffs, standing out in real and virtual spaces, achieving growth amidst rising costs and diminishing revenues, and adapting to rapidly evolving cultural ecosystems. Students will develop their own perspectives on the ways in which commerce, creativity, and culture can align and collide in the leadership of arts organizations. Students will have the opportunity to grapple real-time with the unprecedented challenges facing arts leaders today.
Classwork, Homework, and Grading: Classes will include discussions, group and individual exercises, and guest speakers. Homework will consist of readings, case studies, three short essay and one final paper. Grades will be based on class participation and essays (50%) and an 8-10 page final paper (50%). Advance homework is required for the first class session. Auditors require instructor permission.
- Mandatory attendance week 1
