ARTICLE | Arts journalism on the brink ...

An article by Jay Handelman in South West Florida's Herald Tribune examines some pressing issues about arts journalism and criticism. Handelman writes "While business is generally strong at commercial and nonprofit theaters across the country as they adjust to changing tastes and buying habits, the media, particularly newspapers, are increasingly turning a blind eye to the performing and visual arts -- often in favor of more stories about movies, TV and stars."

Adding to the woes of the arts is a disturbing trend which sees arts reporters replaced by freelancers: "as critics have retired or taken buyouts, they weren't always replaced. If they were, it might have been with a freelance writer, which means a reduced presence in those newsrooms to champion certain kinds of coverage."

More info:
http://www.heraldtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060129/COLUMNIST26/601290922