SMU DataArts - Cultural Data Profile

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National Trends for Arts and Cultural Organizations

April 26, 2024; updated July 25, 2024

In an examination of data from arts and cultural organizations across the country who completed a Cultural Data Profile (CDP), we uncover key trends shaping the sector from 2019 to 2023. In April, we released our initial analysis, drawing from data provided by over 233 organizations of varying budget sizes, geographic locations, and artistic disciplines. Now we have updated that analysis with newly available data to include 734 organizations. Of these, 11% (81 organizations) self-identify as having a mission rooted in a Black, Indigenous, or People of Color (BIPOC) community or tradition, 89% do not.  

Over three consecutive articles, we dissect funding sources and attendance, staffing patterns, and working capital, offering insights into their implications for organizations. We examine key differences by organization size and BIPOC status and identify the important questions the data raises for the arts and culture sector as it moves forward into 2024 and beyond.

Funding Sources

In the first of a three-part series, SMU DataArts identifies changes in funding sources for arts and cultural organizations during and after the height of the pandemic.

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Staffing Analysis

Over the last two years, the average arts and cultural organization staff size has grown through the addition of permanent part-time positions, along with a demonstrated commitment to artists.

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Bottom Line and Working Capital

While the high levels of working capital seen throughout the pandemic years are encouraging, there are signs that this new level of liquidity may not be sustainable.

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