Patronage of the Arts: An art in itself
The role of philanthropy cannot be minimized in the creation and development of culture and the arts. Without benefactors and patrons such as the Medicis of Florence, the church, or even more contemporary individuals such as Joseph Hirshhorn, for whom the famous Washington, D.C., museum and sculpture garden is named, and Agnes Gund, president emerita of the Museum of Modern Art, the public may not have experienced many of the world's most important works of art. In this sense, it can be said that being a patron of the arts is like creating art itself.
Image source: commons.wikimedia.org
The practice of providing support and financial aid to artists has been around since ancient times so that the story of the penniless yet exceedingly talented individuals receiving benefaction from wealthy families, royalty, and leaders (both political and religious) is familiar to almost everyone. These aren't mere tales, however, as many artists rely on the grants and scholarships gifted by patrons. During the Renaissance, the Catholic Church commissioned works from many artists now recognized as masters such as Michelangelo, who created the Sistine Chapel frescoes at the behest of Pope Julius II. Modern artist Jean-Michel Basquiat had himself a patron in Andy Warhol, himself an icon in the art world.
Additionally, with arts programs budget constantly being among the first to be cut during economic crises, many still persist thanks to the endowment of philanthropists. It's not just artists who benefit from this, but also students whose arts and music classes at school stay open, and the public, who have museums, galleries, theaters, and opera houses from which to enjoy the masterpieces these talented individuals have created.
Image source: hirshhorn.si.edu
Funding is a big reason patronage of the arts remains important but also, artists are encouraged to create and speak their minds while audiences are educated, challenged, inspired, and driven to think. Philanthropists or patrons may not always actually wave a brush to canvas or go onstage to perform, but their service is of great value to society, history, and culture.
Aside from being a leader in the real estate industry, Gene E. Phillips and his family are dedicated patrons of the arts. Read more about Mr. Phillips' philanthropic works here.
