Message from the Executive Director
One Year Over, and a New One Just Begun
As we close out the month of July, the first month of a new Fiscal Year for the Indiana Arts Commission, it seems an appropriate opportunity to reflect on some significant events and accomplishments from the past year and look ahead to the future of the arts in our state.
Fiscal Year 2011 was the first full year of implementation of our restructured grant programs. As most of the arts community is aware, the Commission approved the restructuring to minimize the impact of budget reductions to small and mid-sized community art providers in our state. I am pleased to report that we have been able to realize the desired outcomes of maintaining grants to these organizations at levels close to what they were prior to budget cuts in the current biennium.
Of course, change is never easy and this restructuring was no exception for some of our original Regional Arts Partners. Three of our original RAPs elected to leave the Partnership as they concluded they could not justify the cost of administering IAC programs and services at reduced funding levels. The IAC quickly set about finding other organizations willing to serve the cultural needs of those regions, and in the next year we will be introducing the state to several new Regional Arts Partners.
It is imperative that we view these changes through the overall context of fiscal reality and economy of scale. Less money meant either restructuring the way we do business, or deliver fewer services and fewer or smaller grants to the very organizations that could afford it least. Budget reductions are never easy, but the Commission worked with the Governor's Office and General Assembly to tackle the budget challenges facing Indiana. I should point out that many arts councils and commissions in other states are now facing very uncertain, and in come cases grim futures. The Commission thoroughly understands the tough financial choices made by Gov. Daniels and the legislature, and continues to efficiently deliver a high level of service to our state's arts organizations, artists, and citizens.
Looking forward, I am excited by the prospects of working with a vibrant group of organizations concerned with the arts, artists, and the well-being of our state. The Commission will be implementing a new strategic plan which was more than two years in the making. The plan, cited as exemplary by the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies, was based on input from thousands of citizens and hundreds of organizations and is centered on cultivating mutually-beneficial partnerships. As the Commission advances new partnerships with not-for-profit, education and public organizations it will develop critical synergies, efficiencies and strengths to tackle the important work ahead.
Lastly, I would encourage you during these summer months to be cultural tourists and experience the arts of Indiana. As you do, consider what Indiana would be like without the bounty of arts and culture we often take for granted.
All the best,
Lewis
