Activating Public Support for Arts & Creativity

Investing in research, analysis, and communications to build awareness, engagement, and public demand for strong arts policies and financing.

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Looking up at a largescale purple and red mural while the artist stands on a lift and works on it.

Mural by IMAGINE in Cambridge's Central Square, photo by Todd Mazer

Cambridge Community Foundation, photo by Todd Mazer

We recognize that galvanizing public support is a critical component for expanding equity across the arts field. To support this foundational development, the Arts & Creativity Team prioritizes:

  • Investing in research, policy analysis, and communications to inform equitable policy development and long-term financing options for arts and creativity across the diverse communities in Massachusetts. 
  • Supporting the development of leaders, cross-sector networks, and coalitions that effectively communicate the value of the creative sector, and increase its visibility.
  • Investing in support of innovative media platforms, forums, and other ways of broadening public awareness of and engagement in arts and creativity.

Learn more about our Activating Public Support work.

A small group of performers in a brightly colored alleyway are wearing yellow long-sleeve shirts and black pants and balancing with both arms extended and one leg high in the air.

Creative Commonwealth

Initiative

Barr and eight Massachusetts community foundations are advancing diverse, equitable arts and creative expression through a ten-year initiative.

Learn about Creative Commonwealth

Culture & Community in a Time of Transformation

Research

Barr, our partners, and cultural leaders held a series of conversations about the research specific to different regions and opportunities to take action.

View the Culture & Community Research

Area Cooperative Educational Services

Featured Grantee

Location North Haven, CT

  • Education
  • Catalyze New Models
Profile Website

Taunton Public Schools

Location Taunton, MA

  • Education
  • Catalyze New Models
Profile Website

Chelsea Public Schools

Location Chelsea, MA

  • Education
  • Catalyze New Models
  • Invest in Educators
Profile Website

Explore more Activating Public Support grants

Grants database