As cities increasingly use data to help shape policy and identify service gaps, what does this mean for arts and culture? The topic often generates skepticism around identifying metrics that capture the impact of the arts. But as the creative sector continues to emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic, data will be increasingly critical to shape policy, establish more equitable and inclusive practices, and affirm the importance of arts and culture as a public service well into the future.

Bloomberg Associates, the philanthropic municipal consulting arm of Bloomberg Philanthropies, recently released a new resource that offers insights and practical tips for cities to collect and use data about their arts and cultural sectors. The free guide, Arts Data in the Public Sector: Strategies for Local Arts Agencies, summarizes findings from extensive sector research and an in-depth analysis of data practices of 15 local arts agencies across the country. Through best practices and case studies, the guide aims to help city arts leaders use data to show measurable impact, identify priority policy areas, and promote access to the arts across communities.

You can download the free guide here and read more in a blog post here.

In addition, Bloomberg Associates will host a webinar in January discussing the guide and some of the key case studies. More details to come in the new year!