Commitment

Caught between paying homage to the artistic spirit and the almighty dollar, the arts sector must deal with issues of social welfare, censorship, public policy, and arts law and management while simultaneously dedicating itself to the continual development of significant artistic ideas and creations. While arts organizations continue to rise to this challenge, it has become increasingly clear that institutional survival in the arts at the expense of the artists themselves is no survival at all. It is for this reason that artists and arts organizations must be encouraged and aided. Part of this assistance comes in the form of reliable and consistent information, which helps us to understand the needs and objectives of those whom we serve, in their own terms.

The Research Center for Arts and Culture (RCAC) provides data and ideas for applied research, education, advocacy, policy making, and action. In addition to the vast resources of Columbia University, including the considerable cooperation and participation of the faculty, an advisory board of artists, administrators, and members of the legal and business professions offers continuous support to the Center, helping it to provide services and expertise. Collaboration and cooperation with service organizations, trade publishers, and arts institutions further strengthen the RCAC's unique position and enable it to translate its findings into useful, practical forms.

The Research Center for Arts and Culture is committed to:

• Providing long-term, systematic research and documentation on the condition, needs, and situation of the living artist in America
• Exploring the relationship between the public, individual artists, and the arts sector
• Serving as an auspice for research by scholars, students and professionals in arts management education and training around the world
• Providing a forum for research and discussion about cultural policy, arts education, and arts law issues