Local Arts Organizations Stop, Collaborate and Listen

Words of wisdom show up in unexpected places sometimes — especially when you take them out of context. For example, when Robert Matthew Van Winkle opened his 1990 hit “Ice Ice Baby” with the words “Stop, collaborate and listen,” he probably wasn’t talking to leaders of arts organizations in the Cincinnati region.

Yet, that’s exactly what many local arts organizations have decided to do, establishing the new smART4Arts Collaborative.

Meeting the Evolving Needs of Cincy’s Arts Sector

Okay, maybe it wasn’t actually inspired by Vanilla Ice. The smART4Arts Collaborative is an innovative, shared resource pilot program designed to address the unique challenges facing small- to mid-sized arts organizations. With vital support from ArtsWave and The Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile Foundation, the partnership aims to expand the influence and reach of those arts organizations in our region.

Beginning with shared marketing services, the collaborative will eventually expand into shared data, administration and development resources, building a sustainable model that responds directly to the sector’s most pressing needs.

Participating organizations contribute based on their budget size, ensuring the model remains accessible and affordable for all members. This structure was thoughtfully designed to support organizations with limited resources while maximizing collective impact.

A Community-Driven Solution

The concept emerged organically in early 2024 when nine founding organizations recognized a shared challenge. Many arts organizations struggle with limited staff and budget, particularly in the areas of marketing and outreach. By pooling resources, participating groups can amplify their unique voices and contributions at an equitable rate.

“We are excited to harness our collective strengths to amplify the reach of smaller organizations,” says Stacy Sims, executive director of The Well, which provides leadership in the program. Other participating arts organizations include American Legacy Theater, ArtsConnect, Cincinnati Men’s Chorus, Clifton Cultural Arts Center, Learning Through Art, MUSE, My Nose Turns Red and Oxford Community Arts Center.

GreenCraft Media, specialists in sustainable creative services for nonprofits and small businesses, provides comprehensive media and outreach support for the collaborative. Their expertise helps ensure that participants’ stories reach and inspire broader audiences throughout the region.

“We’re thrilled to join forces with the smART4Arts Collaborative,” says Carissa Ray, director of GreenCraft Media. “Together, we are committed to fostering a dynamic environment where art and community converge.”

The smART4Arts Collaborative reflects a thoughtful response to the changing landscape of arts funding and audience engagement. It stands as a testament to what can be achieved when organizations unite around a common purpose — in other words, when they stop, collaborate and listen.

Learn more about the smART4Arts Collaborative at smART4Arts.org.