Many of us have spent years searching for the strongest possible message and the best case on which to build support for the arts. Yet the messages we have used, and successfully integrated in the dialogue across the country, have not yielded the broad sense of shared responsibility that we seek.

Leaders of ArtsWave in Cincinnati designed and commissioned a research initiative to develop an inclusive community dialogue leading to broadly shared public responsibility for arts and culture in the region.

They concluded that their work with the community through arts and culture must be based on a foundation that incorporates a deeper understanding of the best way to communicate with the public in order to achieve that shared sense of responsibility.   

This report summarizes several years of work and important findings for widespread use by others. While leaders of business and other nonprofit sectors have conducted research using framing science methodology to develop communications strategies for building public will on other issues, this is a first-in-the-nation analysis for arts and culture.

During a morning session, Margy Waller will review findings and offer examples of how the community is successfully using the research to develop the conversation.

In an afternoon workshop about the report findings, Margy will discuss applying the findings to specific community goals and organizational events and deliverables. 

As a group, the participants will explore use of the research to meet community needs. This hands on approach will strengthen local leaders’ ability to utilize this first-in-nation research report in day-to-day strategic communications.

Outcomes:

1) Broad awareness of research on traps and barriers to building broad support for the arts;

2) Knowledge of best strategies for communicating value of the arts that moves residents to action on behalf of the arts as a public good;

3) Practice using research on communication strategies in local scenarios.

PLEASE NOTE: This event is free to nonprofit organizations.  For-profit organizations will be charged a nominal fee of $25/person.  Cash or check payment will be accepted on the day of the event.  Organizations wishing to pay with a credit card should call Karen at 610-898-1930 prior to the event.