Abstract

The current economic crisis has had a profound effect on the social life of nations. Unemployment, crime, suicide, family stability, child and adult well-being are all affected by the recent economic downturn. What is often less measured, certainly less documented, is the impact that recessions have on the arts. This paper explores how the arts are affected by the current economic crisis. How has the financial meltdown altered patterns within the arts – in terms of offerings, in terms of participation? With more frequent theatrical closings, fewer art exhibitions, less money invested in the arts, what impact does this have on the public engagement with the arts? Do some arts thrive during recessions – less costly activities such as movies, books? To portray the social impact of the economic recession we offer the concept of social recession. We argue that when a significant number of social conditions worsen, all at the same time, nations may experience what may be thought of as a social recession. This applies not only to social problems, but to the arts as well. The experience of loss, greater insecurity, and diminished expectations that accompany an economic recession have parallels in our social and cultural life. The interaction between the social and economic crises is an important area of contemporary concern.