Some cooperatives also share studio space and expensive equipment and reap quantity discounts on supplies through joint purchasing. By marketing and producing theatrical and dance productions themselves, performing artists use cooperatives to increase their artistic freedom and control over their performances. Arts and crafts cooperatives responding to the survey typically elect a board of directors on the basis of one member, one vote, although some are collectives and make decisions based on consensus. Of the fourteen cooperatives responding to the survey, the oldest was formed in 1959, while two were formed within the last few years. Fifty-seven percent of responding cooperatives are incorporated, whereas 43 percent are not.
Membership ranges from six to one hundred members with an average of twenty-eight members.
Most arts and crafts cooperatives divide business duties among the members. Although the cooperatives help generate earnings for member artists, members are not employed by the cooperatives. All rights reserved.