It seems that there must be numerous ways that the arts can use web technologies to create new modes of support for artists, while also creating more engaging ways for audiences to feel involved with the art, the artists, and the artistic process. In particular, the web offers ways to leverage the size of the arts community to develop tools and services that benefit the arts at large.

A perfect example of this is the way that Fractured Atlas, an arts service organization, is able to negotiate better health care plans for artists by serving a wide population of artists. Large numbers of people can create positive impacts.

As the artistic director of Misnomer Dance Theater, I’ve been looking at ways to contribute not only to Misnomer Dance, but the arts as well.

For example, we are currently competing as an Ideablob finalist to win $10,000 to develop web tools aimed at helping performing arts groups to build and broaden online audience involvement. The prize goes to the idea that receives the most online user votes.

The contest funds $10K to an initiative every month and runs through March. (You can check out and vote for our entry here before Dec. 31st, or register and submit your own idea for next month’s contest!)

We think this is a great example of a creative way that online arts communities can raise funds to help the arts without making direct contributions themselves.

Are there other online methods that you’ve found to help groups raise funds for the arts without individual personal contributions? If so, let us know by replying to this post. Together, we can help generate ideas that artists can test and use so that we can all grow the arts together.

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