Demystifying Dissolution: Understanding Responsible Closure of Arts and Cultural Organizations

In light of competition in the nonprofit cultural sector, coupled with grim economic realities during the early 21st century, a rationalization of the sector and the imminent closure of organizations are inevitable. While there are many resources for starting an organization, relatively little is known about how to close one responsibly. Mechanisms for properly tracking dead organizations are also lacking. What should today’s arts leaders, board members and administrators know about responsibly ending operations? This essay examines the legal and non-legal steps that must be taken in order for an organization to dissolve.