Disaster Preparedness
Disaster Preparedness for Artists and Arts Organizations: Safeguarding Your Work and Livelihood
Disasters and emergencies are the largest threat to the careers of artists and the livelihood of arts organizations across the country. Yet, addressing these issues often falls to the bottom of the to-do list when skies are blue, and danger is out of sight. In a field driven by passion and creativity, who wants to dwell on the “what ifs” of potential disasters?
But as devastating weather-related events become increasingly common, the arts community can no longer afford to ignore the importance of disaster preparedness. This is about more than preserving artwork; it’s about protecting the future of artists’ livelihoods and ensuring that organizations can bounce back from adversity. Are you or your organization prepared to handle a devastating emergency if it came your way?
Understanding the Risks to the Arts Sector
Our work in the arts sector brings unique vulnerabilities. In many cases, artwork is irreplaceable, and materials may be fragile or difficult to relocate in emergencies. Arts materials may be damaged or even destroyed during a natural disaster. For performing arts organizations, disruptions can mean lost revenue, damaged venues, compromised relationships with patrons, and, in the worst cases, permanent closures. Meanwhile, independent artists risk losing original works of art and their livelihoods. Disaster preparedness for the arts is about developing a plan for readiness, response, and recovery. We’ve included some resources for artists and arts organizations to take proactive steps to protect their artistic assets during a disaster.
Disaster Preparedness Resources
The National Coalition for Arts’ Preparedness and Emergency Response (NCAPER) was formed in 2006 in response to the significant losses and devastation suffered by artists and creative economies in the wake of hurricanes Katrina and Rita. As a voluntary task force of national, regional, state and local arts organizations, public agencies, and foundations, the Coalition helps ensure that artists, arts and cultural organizations, cultural funders, and arts businesses have the capacity and ability to respond effectively to disasters and emergencies affecting the arts and culture sector. The Coalition believes that the arts sector is an essential collaborator in broader societal efforts in preparedness, emergency response, and recovery to ensure the resilience of the general community.
NCAPER Artist Recovery Resources
NCAPER Arts Field Guide to Federal Disaster Relief
NCAPER Arts Field Guide to Federal Disaster Relief in Spanish
The Craft Emergency Relief Fund is rooted in the idea of mutual aid, where individuals unite to support one another during difficult times. Their commitment to generosity, inclusion, and care manifests in the way they organize resources, interact, communicate, and connect with others. This concept emphasizes the importance of community, ensuring that everyone has the resources needed to thrive. This commitment is central to their vision of an equitable, thriving, and supportive craft community.
CERF+ Studio Protector
CERF+ Studio Safety Poster
CERF+ Disaster Resources
