From Corporate Artification to Artification in the Third Sector

Artification refers to the process by which objects, practices, or entities not traditionally considered art are transformed into socially accepted art forms. A common example is graffiti, which was once regarded as vandalism but has since evolved into a recognized and celebrated form of art, but organizations and brands can also engage in artification strategies. This special issue of the Journal of Philanthropy and Marketing explores the concept of artification, with a particular focus on its application within the third sector. The six papers in this issue examine how artification fosters creativity, innovation, and social impact in non-profits. Through case studies and empirical research, the issue demonstrates how third-sector organizations, such as arts and culture institutions, charities, and foundations, can leverage artification not only to support the arts but also to enhance their legitimacy, build stronger community relationships, and increase credibility with stakeholders. The special issue examines studies on artification in both non-profit organizations and corporate initiatives, emphasizing how art fosters social sustainability through creative partnerships. Collectively, these papers underscore the transformative potential of artification in the third sector, offering valuable insights for non-profits seeking to integrate art into their strategic initiatives and enhance their social impact.