Art Funding

There’s been a good deal of discussion about funding cuts for the arts, both at the national and state (at least Michigan) levels. I’m all for funding the arts, especially when it comes to supporting K-12 programs. History shows that strong, robust civilizations have strong, robust art programs. I wonder, however, what is the balance? In a (post?) capitalist society, art needs to prove itself beyond promoting civility and excitement, though these seem to be lacking throughout society today. The art community needs to be able to say that it could support itself if necessary. I’ve seen the statistics that say for every dollar put into the arts the economy gains fifteen. I believe this…but we need to continue pushing the envelope…tell our government in as many ways as possible that while funding cuts will hurt, it is the citizenry and officials that will suffer the most — not artists. We will continue to be creative and to create!

Should tagging be a crime?

OK, I think it is unfortunate that people put graffiti on public buildings — defacing public space. What I’m curious about is how should this kind of crime be punished? In a number of states, there’s a fine of around $250 for first time offenders, which increases to actual jail time for repeat offenders or those found to have a history of criminal activity. I’ve been in some cities — Montreal, San Francisco, etc. — where there are places that are full of graffiti, and some of it is very, very artistic and takes on pertinent social issues.

Thoughts?