State Arts Funding: Better, and Far to Go

Gov. Gray Davis was in a generous mood toward the arts last January when he unveiled his budget proposals for 2000-2001, increasing funding of the state-run California Arts Council by 60%, from a meager $20 million to $32 million. That was the right approach. Before Davis took office, California was 47th in per capita arts spending, just 50 cents per Californian. Davis’ boost put the figure at 97 cents, still far from the top 10. New York spends $2.76 per capita.

State funding for the arts council should increase again this year. Established in 1976 to promote artistic awareness, participation and expression, the council last year funded 1,400 grantees with a total of $18 million. Over the past 25 years, it has awarded more than $150 million in grants to individuals and nonprofit art organizations.

With additional funding the council could expand projects like the Ryman Program for Young Artists in Los Angeles, which provides year-round classes in drawing and painting techniques. The program is open to all high school students in Southern California, and all selected students receive a full scholarship for instruction, materials and, when needed, public transportation. The current program handles 100 students, just 18% of applicants.

While the governor’s increase this year has allowed the agency to dramatically extend its reach, in a state the size of California even $32 million is spread thin.