Summary Report of our Growth Plan (2019-2024)
This comprehensive plan aimed to solidify Oregon Contemporary's role as a cultural hub, promoting art, fostering community, and ensuring accessibility for all. We started with an organization that was loved for its experimental exhibitions and programs and made organization-wide overhauls on operations and support of communities including the broader arts and culture viewers and more specific marginalized audiences. We also worked to expand and support exhibitions and programs, both in terms of impact for audiences and in particular in the financial and operational support of artists. Our funding was an impactful part of the growth, but much greater work was accomplished in terms of making ongoing processes, systems, and day-to-day operations reflect our values ongoing.
Oregon Contemporary increased and expanded our ability to present transformative art experiences by moving to utilizing the building year-round for programming spaces and specifically renting to arts and culture tenants. We doubled exhibitions to provide more opportunities for regional artists by showing exhibitions in both galleries simultaneously. We continued to print original research and archival catalogs, including original writings by curators and program documentation. A fund was created to support last-minute programming opportunities. We certified and met Working Artists and the Greater Economy wages, ensuring artists and curators were always paid in addition to any art production stipends. The organization also increased and supported tenants related to the mission by working with arts and culture non-profits and businesses and helping tenants plan for any upcoming rent increases. We also invested in exhibition and presentation equipment and gallery space improvements.
Oregon Contemporary enhanced diversity, equity, and inclusivity by increasing BIPOC representation in programming to 50%+, fostering partnerships with organizations by offering resources like low-cost or no-cost space for communities of BIPOC, LGBTQ+ and People with Disabilities; and conducting DEIA training for staff and board members. The organization developed and displayed an Equity Statement, Safe Space Agreement, and Land Acknowledgement. Additionally, we improved ADA standards by installing accessible infrastructure such as stage steps, ADA-compliant door sensors, gender-neutral and Braille signage, and large print exhibition guides, as well as providing microphones for events.
Oregon Contemporary enhanced outreach and community engagement by building a new website for better audience updates and expanded archives. We introduced First Saturdays for viewing multiple shows and programs, as well as showcasing tenant programming. We strengthened visitor experiences by increasing contracted docents and event coordinators. To improve branding and visibility, we printed visitor guides, redesigned branding, and added various signs and promotional materials. We created shop and cafe spaces, enhanced outdoor areas with landscaping and improved performance spaces and indoor facilities to create a more welcoming environment. The organization also increased the advertising budget and event photography to better promote programs.
Oregon Contemporary built momentum for growth by aligning program costs with available funding, reforming key programs, and stabilizing finances through greater fundraising efforts. We established an advisory council to guide specific initiatives. To ensure sustainability, we created a savings buffer for unexpected costs, increased staff pay and benefits to market standards, and planned annual cost of living adjustments. Additionally, we expanded staff numbers in line with programming needs. All of this contributes to a strong foundation for future growth.
Overall Total: $751,194
2019-2020: Raised $120,000
2020-2021: Raised $191,676
2021-2022: Raised $127,693
2022-2023: Raised $144,714
2023-2024: Projected to raise $167,111
Amount Raised to Date: $743,294, 99% funded
Funds Still Needed: $7,900
Notes
Some activities were impacted or adjusted due to the pandemic; affecting fundraising, timeline, and execution, which were adjusted annually.
The annual increase in funding requirements is projected to be around $56,050.
Regular surveys and community feedback mechanisms were established to ensure the initiatives align with the needs and desires of the community.
Next up- Increasing audiences and deepening engagement
Increasing the audience and fostering more community engagement is crucial for an arts nonprofit like Oregon Contemporary. By reaching out to diverse groups, such as newcomers, families, culture enthusiasts, and the BIPOC community, the organization can expand its support base, ensuring a steady stream of visitors and participants for its programs. Engaging existing supporters with tailored communications and personal interactions helps secure vital financial contributions, which are essential for sustaining operations and funding new initiatives.
We will leverage 18 annual opportunities to engage 7 audience groups using 15+ communication methods to deliver 14+ targeted messages. Key initiatives include promoting 1st Saturdays to newcomers, families, culture enthusiasts, and the BIPOC community, while engaging existing donors and arts leaders with deeper conversations and personal invitations and small events. We will utilize our Google ad grant and social media, direct mail, personal emails, and in-person events to boost attendance and encourage donations. Special campaigns will focus on fundraising through direct communication and social media outreach. Rental spaces will be marketed to new audiences, emphasizing our discounts for arts and community groups. Additionally, we will work to introduce newcomers to Ox through on site engagement during large events. These efforts will be supported by increased marketing, enhanced signage, and comprehensive staff support to ensure effective implementation and growing community engagement.
Overall, increasing audience size and community engagement will strengthen Oregon Contemporary’s impact, enhance its cultural relevance, and ensure its long-term sustainability, enabling it to continue enriching the community through art.