Unity could ignite arts scene

Trying to thrive and survive in the local arts community is tough without a little unity.

Although the economy seems to have started the long, tough climb out of recession, times are still tight. That is particularly true in the arts community, where ticket buyers and, more important, potential donors, often need to be sold on the idea of art or drama or dance as something more than frivolous, as something necessary.

Compounding that difficult prospect is the pervasive, and probably true, idea that each artist and organization is essentially chasing the same dollars. I'm pretty sure this is a problem everywhere and know for a fact that it's a real issue in the Augusta area.

What's the answer? Unity.

I know that this is something of a dirty word in the arts community. Sure, there are collaborations and everyone is happy to embrace under an occasional umbrella, say the Greater Augusta Arts Council, but for the most part, daily operations are filed firmly under "mind your own business."

I'm not suggesting there's animosity amongst the arts organizations, although there have been periods where relationships were strained. What I am suggesting is that competition, rather than community, seems to be the guiding principle.

I do not believe a single entity collecting and dispersing funds, centralizing ticketing and setting artificial floors and ceilings for admission prices is the answer. What I do think is that there's room for collaboration and cooperation in ways that have not yet been explored.

Here's an example: Every year, there's a race to secure the best dates at local venues, most notably the Imperial Theatre. Instead of turning this annual rite of spring (when dates are often booked) into a competition, make it a collaborative event. Pick dates roundtable-style, ensuring all groups get good dates.

In other instances, something more organized might work. I'm thinking here about the independent artists. I was talking recently to a small gallery owner, who confided in me that after years establishing the business as a downtown landmark, he's beginning to question whether the time, effort and expense have been worthwhile. The local art market, he explained, just never seems to ignite.

Would it ignite with a bit more unity?

Here's a suggestion: A locals-only art fair, perhaps at James Brown Arena, at which pieces might be sold at discounted prices. The idea is that not only might this put some dollars in artists' pockets, but also art in the hands of people who might not otherwise think about making such a purchase. That's how collectors are made. Give them that first sweet taste and they'll be back for more, and more willing to pay premium prices.

It's all about understanding that while there will always be some competition for patrons, an arts community will not survive if being bigger and better as individuals becomes a priority over becoming bigger and better as a community.