In the midst of the 2018 federal government shutdown, Dan Sallick, partner and co-founder of Subject Matter, took a stand. The Board Chair of the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden wrote a piece for ARTnews underscoring the essential role the arts play in our democracy – and humanity at large. “Our arts institutions help to feed our nation’s cultural appetite and satisfy the craving for art that has been a part of human existence for thousands of years. We need these institutions and what they deliver for all Americans,” Sallick stated.

The Arts Funders Forum team first spoke with Sallick during the shutdown, at a moment when all eyes were on the Smithsonian, which is more than 60% federally funded. "My hope is that when the federal government reopens and the lights again illuminate the magnificent rooms brimming with art along the Mall, we all will recognize anew the real value of the art and its importance to our people and our republic," he shared.

With one month until the Arts Funders Forum launch event in Miami Beach, we talk to Sallick about his passion for increasing access to arts and culture for the latest edition of our interview series.

Dan Sallick. Image courtesy of Paul Frick.

Tell us about what you do.

I run a creative advocacy agency in Washington, DC called Subject Matter. We help clients have a meaningful impact on critical public policy issues.

What is your role in the cultural sector?

I have been a longtime Board Member and am the current Board Chair of the Smithsonian’s Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden. I am also a former member of the Board of the Judd Foundation.

In your view, what impact do the arts have on society?

Artists see the world differently than the rest of us. They inspire new thinking about global issues and open minds about creative possibilities. Life can’t all be about facts and figures. Artists help us see that we can lead more aspirational lives. We need their voices at the table. And we need beauty in the world as well.

Why do you support Arts Funders Forum? What do you hope it will achieve?

By seeding the notion of funding the arts to a new generation of donors, AFF will create more access to art for everyone in society, especially kids, and not just the most privileged.

How did you get involved with arts philanthropy?

I got very interested in contemporary art after visiting the Hirshhorn. I started volunteering to help the Museum with communications and digital strategy.

What inspired your first gift?

My first real financial donation was to support a 2009-2010 video show at the Hirshhorn by Irish artist John Gerrard. Directions: John Gerrard was an expensive show for the Museum to put on and every dollar counted. The exhibition was a great example of how new technology was going to change how art is made. I was thrilled to have a small part in helping make it happen.

What specific arts and cultural causes have you been most passionate about?

I have been most passionate about my work at the Hirshhorn. As a part of the Smithsonian Institution located on the National Mall, the Hirshhorn has a unique opportunity to be the first art experience for many Washington, DC visitors. The Hirshhorn is their first visit to a contemporary art museum experience of any kind for more than half of the Museum’s visitors. That presents a huge opportunity to open the door of art to people from all over the world.

What do you hope to achieve with your giving?

In supporting the Hirshhorn, I am helping them to fulfill an important mission, which is to put on eye-opening shows, insightful public programs and, most of all, increase access to art. I try to do this through giving, helping bring new supporters into the mix and offering pro bono services through Subject Matter, which may be difficult for museums to afford otherwise.

What do you believe the role of private giving is in the 21st century?

My hope is that private giving in the 21st century places a massive premium on helping institutions that serve broad and diverse constituencies, with a focus on educating those who lack easy access to art and culture. If arts and culture are more ingrained in the DNA of America, we will be a stronger country.

Any advice for donors who are just beginning to support the arts?

My advice for those starting to give to arts and cultural causes is to think about the total value of what you bring to the table and where it can be best deployed for the greatest good. It’s not just about the money; it is about finding a cause you really connect with and opening up your whole network and personal expertise to help that institution succeed.

Arts Donor Interview: 10 Questions with Dan Sallick