Minnesota: Evaluation Workshops

This summer, the Minnesota State Arts Board (MSAB) supported a series of eight evaluation workshops to help artists and arts leaders leverage the power of analysis in support of their creative and organizational goals. The workshops focused on evaluation methods and practices that artists and arts organizations can use independently of grantee-reporting requirements to reflect on, learn more about and plan for the future of their work. Through a fiscal-agent relationship, MSAB partnered with the Forum of Regional Arts Councils, a consortium of 11 regional arts councils serving all 87 of Minnesota’s counties, to recruit widely for the workshops and to provide logistical support. About 150 people registered, including artists of many disciplines as well as fundraisers, education mangers, program directors, executive directors and board members. At each workshop, an evaluation expert and a graphic facilitator led participants through practical tutorials, self-reflective exercises, and large- and small-group discussions. Conversation maps and other resources from the workshops are available. Find out more from MSAB Research and Evaluation Director Renae Youngs.