Fresh Arts, a Houston arts service and empowerment nonprofit, in partnership with SMU DataArts, a national arts research organization, has launched the Greater Houston Artist Survey. The survey is an effort to learn the realities of pursuing an artistic career in the Houston area, from income sources and expenditures to needs for workspace and opportunities.
The organizations are seeking broad participation, with an expansive, multimedia definition of artmaking that includes literary arts, visual arts, performance, design, and craft, as well as “culture bearers, and community-based artists.” A wide range of specified subcategories includes traditional forms such as painting, woodworking, music, dance, spoken word, architecture, along with other practices from circus acrobatics, mime and puppetry, to floral design, and comedy.
Angela Carranza, Executive Director of Fresh Arts, said, “This survey is about artists being seen, heard, and counted. Too often, artists are not at the table when funding decisions and advocacy strategies are shaped. This survey helps change that. Artists know what they need, and this data turns their lived experiences into meaningful advocacy and more equitable investment in Houston’s creative community.”
In an effort to encourage potential participants to share their experiences, the survey is open to creatives of all levels, from part-time hobbyists to full-time professionals. For purposes of the survey, the Greater Houston area is defined as including the following counties: Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Liberty, Montgomery, San Jacinto, and Waller.
Fresh Arts states in its announcement that the survey results will “help shape programs, resources, policies, and funding decisions that strengthen our sector.”
Participants in the online survey are asked a series of questions relating to their artistic practices and related activities. Questions explore income and employment, cost of living and access to space, training and career advancement, health care and financial stability, and community support and collaboration. Respondents are also asked to rate how valuable particular resources or experiences have been for their practice, including residencies, child care, and pro bono expert services.
Several arts oriented organizations have actively announced the survey to their members and constituents, including the Houston Arts Alliance (HAA), Houston BIPOC Arts Network and Fund (BANF), and Advocates of a Latino Museum of Cultural and Visual Arts & Archive Complex in Houston, Harris County (ALMAAHH).
As of Wednesday, February 25, 400 artists have responded to the survey, which takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. The first 600 respondents will receive a $25 gift card.
Learn more about the Fresh Arts survey project on its website, or take the survey directly via the Alchemer website. A downloadable PDF version of the survey is available here.
The survey will close on Tuesday, March 31, with results compiled and a report delivered publicly in the fall.