Rethinking Cultural Participation: A Framework for Change
Presentation notes by Cyndi Pederson, Director, Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs
(The following presentation notes summarize "Rethinking Cultural Participation:
A Framework for Change," a study by Michael Moore, Arts Partners, Lila Wallace-Reader’s
Digest Fund. 
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Complete Study
Introduction
- A person’s decision to participate is not simply the result of economic status, education or other background factors.
- The decision to participate involves a complex set of choices influenced by a broad range of factors.
- Unlike demographics, these factors are open to influence through smart
changes in business practice.
Arts Participation by Group
Disinclined: Negative perception of what it means to participate
Inclined: Practical barriers to participation
Current Participants: Greatest single determinant for repeat
participation is the depth of the experience
Strategic Framework for Arts Participation
Key Conclusions
Aspirations for greater participation must be deeply rooted in an organization.
- Align goals with mission
- Target participation goals
- Align strategies with barriers
- Measure and collect feedback:
“Modest specificity trumps vague ambition.”
Additional Thoughts
- Building participation is not one-size-fits all
- Attempting strategies that are misaligned may alienate existing audiences
- Good listening is essential.
“You can’t solve a problem with the same consciousness that
created it.”
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