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There is a thriving 'arts' community here (although sometimes I think the definition is rather narrow). And this is a 'can do' culture here.

So, we can all paint, sculpt, design a dress, perform an aria, join a band, whatever and do it in our garage, living room, or back yard.

But what happens when you want to show your painting, sing with others, produce a play? Where are you going to do that? And how will you pay for it? ticket/admission revenues are not the answer!

The huge debt that many of the main stream cultural organizations are carrying in this town is overwhelming -- just look at OMSI, PCS, Symphony to name a few. And the closure of the PICA, Portland Art Center and the troubles at the Firehouse Cultural Center. The BigO does a story on this about once a year.

So do we need funding for the arts here? Duh!

posted 5 years, 3 months ago
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