Arts News: Be a Citizen Journalist, Not a Spectator

Opinion:

Want to make a real impact and contribute to the cultural conversation? Forget doomscrolling and passive consumption. The best way to understand the arts and news is to get involved yourself. Stop waiting for permission, and start creating.

Getting involved in the arts is not just for artists. It’s for anyone who wants to be a more informed, engaged, and active citizen. And frankly, with the current state of news, we need more of those.

## Become a Citizen Journalist of the Arts

The traditional model of arts criticism is dying. Newspapers are shrinking, and their news coverage of local events is often an afterthought. That leaves a huge void, and guess what? You can fill it. How? By becoming a citizen journalist of the arts.

Start a blog, a newsletter, or even just a dedicated social media account. Focus on your local scene. Review gallery openings, theater productions, concerts, and public art installations. Interview artists and curators. Report on funding issues and policy debates.

I know what you’re thinking: “But I’m not a trained journalist!” So what? You don’t need a journalism degree to have an opinion or to report on what you see. The key is to be informed, thoughtful, and fair. Fact-check your information. Be transparent about your biases. And most importantly, be passionate. You may even find that art drives innovation.

We launched a local arts news blog in Atlanta in 2023, covering everything from the latest exhibitions at the High Museum of Art to the underground music scene at The Masquerade. We started with zero readers, but within six months, we were getting over 1,000 unique visitors per week. And we did it all on a shoestring budget, using free tools like WordPress and Mailchimp. The Associated Press has even picked up some of our reporting, which is something I never thought would happen.

## Get Involved in Arts Organizations

Want to really understand the arts? Stop being a spectator and become a participant. Volunteer at a local museum, gallery, or theater. Join the board of an arts organization. Donate to an arts fund. To deepen your understanding, consider attending local theater; can drama change minds?

These organizations are the lifeblood of the arts community. They provide funding, space, and support for artists. They also offer educational programs and outreach initiatives that bring art to new audiences. By getting involved, you’ll not only be supporting the arts, but you’ll also be learning about the inner workings of the arts world.

I volunteered at the Hudgens Center for Art & Learning in Duluth, Georgia for two years, helping with everything from fundraising to event planning. It gave me a whole new appreciation for the challenges and rewards of running an arts organization. It’s not all glamorous openings and champagne receptions. There’s a lot of hard work and dedication that goes on behind the scenes.

## Support Arts Education

One of the biggest threats to the arts is the decline of arts education. Schools are cutting funding for arts programs, and many students are missing out on the opportunity to develop their creative talents. This is a tragedy, not just for the students themselves, but for society as a whole. A recent study by the National Endowment for the Arts ([https://www.arts.gov/](https://www.arts.gov/)) found that students who participate in arts education are more likely to graduate from high school, attend college, and be engaged in their communities.

We need to advocate for arts education in our schools. Attend school board meetings and speak out in support of arts programs. Donate to organizations that provide arts education to underserved communities. And most importantly, encourage the young people in your life to pursue their artistic passions.

Here’s what nobody tells you: arts education isn’t just about learning how to paint or play an instrument. It’s about developing critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and creative expression. These are the skills that will be essential for success in the 21st century economy. Considering cultural trends is also crucial to understanding the arts.

## Dismissing the “Starving Artist” Myth

I hear the arguments all the time: “The arts are a waste of time.” “Artists are all starving.” “There’s no money in the arts.” These are tired, outdated stereotypes. Yes, it can be difficult to make a living as an artist. But it’s also possible to have a successful and fulfilling career in the arts. And even if you don’t become a professional artist, engaging with the arts can enrich your life in countless ways.

The arts are not just a luxury. They are essential to our culture and our economy. They provide us with beauty, inspiration, and meaning. They challenge us to think differently and see the world in new ways. And they create jobs and generate revenue. According to a report by the Bureau of Economic Analysis ([https://www.bea.gov/](https://www.bea.gov/)), the arts and cultural sector contributed $1.02 trillion to the U.S. economy in 2022. (Yes, that was 2022, the most recent data available; things have only grown since then.)

Plus, let’s not forget the mental health benefits. Immersing yourself in the arts, whether as a creator or an appreciator, can reduce stress, improve mood, and boost self-esteem. In a world that often feels overwhelming and chaotic, the arts can provide a much-needed source of comfort and inspiration.

So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and get involved! Start a blog, volunteer at a museum, donate to an arts fund. The arts community needs your support. And you need the arts.

Don’t just consume news about the arts – create it. Write that review, attend that opening, volunteer that hour. Your contribution matters, and it’s the best way to truly understand the power and importance of art in our world. Now, go make something happen.