Arts Philanthropy Booming, Cultural Giving Rises 9.2 Percent

Americans’ donations to arts and culture rose 9.2 percent in 2014, the highest increase in nine categories tracked by Giving USA, an annual report on charitable contributions.

Overall, however, arts and culture commanded a modest share of the philanthropic pie. Estimated gifts to arts and culture totaled $17.2 billion, according to the report compiled by Indiana University’s Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Although that was a record high, it represented only 4.8 percent of the $358.4-billion total.

Giving to all charitable sectors rose 5.5 percent in a year when investment markets remained generally favorable—a key factor for many affluent donors.