Says "no" to no money for the art.

For all you defenders and lovers of art out there, you’ll be pleased to learn you are not alone. Although the future of our art budget here in Wisconsin is still in extreme peril, the city of Atlanta is fighting back.  Last Thursday, Mayor Kasim Reed of Atlanta reversed the decision to cut the city’s art budget in half, stating it simply “didn’t sit right” with him.

Apparently he isn’t the only one dissatisfied with the funding, or lack thereof, being directed toward the arts. Over 200 artists and art leaders rallied outside Atlanta’s city hall last week, speaking out against the cuts at the local budget meeting. Standing ovations ensued upon hearing of their mayor’s symbolic stand against the attack on the arts. 

So bully for Atlanta, right? We’re in Wisconsin.

True. Our art budget is still (more than) halved and we aren’t partying with Mayor Reed in Atlanta. We are, however, facing similar struggles. In addition to deep budget cuts, apparently art in Wisconsin is now synonymous with tourism. If you believe in the necessity of a strongly funded, individualized arts program, this probably doesn’t “sit right” with you, either.

Are there workarounds? Minor victories, such as our own beloved State Theatre snagging some extra dough from a non-state entity, is a reminder that all is not lost.  And hey, if Atlanta can do it, why can’t we?