Creating a healthy visual arts ecology: how to strengthen your business model

Creating a healthy visual arts ecology: how to strengthen your business model

By Susan J Royce

SUMMARY

This report was commissioned by Arts Council England and the Turning Point Network to assist members of the network to review and strengthen their own business models. The primary focus of the report is on what these organisations could (and need) to change - rather than what is working well. The report offers several change recommendations for individual organisations, funders and the network; underpinned by the belief that sound business models are a necessary component in a healthy visual arts ecology.

In summary I would suggest the following.
• Visual arts organisations need to consider and debate the impact of their discomfort with ‘business’ and the ‘economy’ upon their own sustainability.
• Funding bodies need to become less tolerant of underperformance and more willing to challenge failing organisations.
• The development of business skills should be a priority for organisations and funders.
• Greater efforts need to be made to value, invest in and exploit organisational assets
(people, buildings, brand and intellectual property).

Resource type: Research | Published: 2013