In the current issue of The Atlantic, 15 ways to save the world are offered. The one that really stands out is to “pay the artists.” What follows, unfortunately, is a plan for a government program that would put small amounts of cash into artists’ pockets. So, we fund the arts, but at our own indirect expense. And, we don’t get to enjoy the results of what we pay into the system (at least directly).

The idea of government support for artists comes at an interesting time. The art market is in a colossal slump — it hasn’t been this bad since the early 1990s. And, consumer spending is in rough shape, obviously a major reason for the thrashed art market. Support for artists isn’t coming from collectors … but this is the curse of a hybrid market. A free economy heals itself, and government intervention begets government intervention.

So, what are we to do? Empower the artists!

The development of marketplaces where artists can be found (and sell there work) is crucial. At present, the art market relies on a dated system of galleries and auction houses, which makes it tough for artists to access potential buyers. Private networks are the only remaining alternative, but let’s face it: artists aren’t the best salesmen. A free and efficient market, though, takes the headache out of the equation.

Part of what drew me to Zivity is that I see it as a solution to the current problems in the art market. For art nude photography, the artists gain visibility — probably the greatest challenge they face in tapping the potential of a vast marketplace. One would hope that today’s art market mayhem will lead to similar platforms for painters, sculptors and those who work in other media.

An art bailout, however small, isn’t going to solve even immediate problems. Let’s build a better market instead. The arts will prosper, and we’ll fund (and enjoy) what we like.

[Photo of "Hot Carmen" by Julio Aguilera by Ron Melendi via Migrant Blogger]