The logic of evaluation and not-for-profit arts organizations: The perspective of an evaluation consultant

Abstract

days of art for arts sake may be over. With American students falling behind students in other countries in terms of literacy, mathematics and science, why should educators and arts organizations offer art? Although few would deny the intrinsic value of art, the question is one of opportunity cost; in other words, when art is offered, what is not being offered? Why put our limited resources into arts education? How can we show that the programs provided by arts organizations do have value? The answer is evaluation, a necessary tool for justifying the continued promotion of the arts and arts organizations.