Popular' art is precisely the name for art that can support itself. Therefore it is essential that the NEA reserve its support specifically for art that is unpopular. The NEA should support art that is not immediately demanded by the public, but that it judges will lead to the long-term intellectual enrichment of our nation. Second, we must address the needs of artists as a unique class of workers and citizens by conducting research on the career paths of artists and by asserting the central role of artists as 'ambassadors of the border,' bringing heritage and creativity to truly livable communities. And, finally, we must place art and art-making at the heart of America's diplomacy.
Art is the 'soft power' of our diverse society.
It can be a centerpiece of our diplomatic agenda.