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Published: 1984

Total Pages: 52

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The Visual Arts Program of the National Endowment of the Arts undertook a survey to determine the economic conditions of artists and the processes by which they exhibit works in four cities located outside the major art centers of New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago. The selected market areas included Houston, Minneapolis, Washington, and San Francisco. Research indicated that these cities have significant markets for locally produced art, which is mainly sold by galleries and museums. However, artists are dissatisfied with exhibition opportunities, especially with lengthy waiting periods. Among various methods used to locate exhibition opportunities, personal contacts are most used, and service organizations are least utilized. The data indicated major differences between the artists and exhibitors on the perception of fairness in the exhibition selection process. Obtaining studio space is a major problem for artists in all four cities, and both artists and exhibitors advocate public acquisition of buildings which could be rented for studio space. Few artists earn a living solely from art sales. Most hold other jobs or are supported by another person. Median art income for the artists sampled was $718 in 1978. Median production costs were $1,450, approximately twice the median income. Tables and figures are included. (JHP)