The NEA Offers a 21st Century Artist Profile

At Thursday's Cultural Policy Public Forum, one hot topic was the "Artists in the Workforce" study by the NEA, detailed in a New York Times article published that morning. A few key findings of the study include:

• The median income that artists reported in 2005 was $34,800 — $42,000 for men and $27,300 for women
• The national median income is $30,100 - meaning that as a whole, artists make more than the national median income
• Artists represent 1.4 percent of the labor force, or nearly as many people as the active and reserve armed forces
• More than 1 in 4 artists live in New York or California
• The percentage of female, black, Hispanic and Asian artists is greater among younger artists

What are your thoughts on and reactions to these facts, as well as others from the study? Were you surprised by any of the numbers? What else would you like to know?

These are just a few of the questions we are asking ourselves as we become familiar with the full study and its potential implications. Be sure to be on the lookout for more reactions to this study throughout the arts world and to share with us anything you find interesting. We are always excited to hear your thoughts!