The importance of international cultural exchange: Arts programs of Meridian International Center

The focus of this thesis is the Arts Division of Meridian International Center and four major international exhibits it developed, together with their ancillary programs. These exhibits which toured in the United States, are evaluated in the context of the importance and significance of cultural exchange. This research covers an overview of government-funded international exchange programs, a review of Meridian International Center's private and public funding, and a thorough analysis of the four major exhibits. The results of the study revealed that these programs had an impact on the communities they toured bringing an awareness of other nationalities, and introducing international arts to the heartland of America. The findings also show that government budget cuts are affecting Meridian's international arts programs and that the demand for public resources is increasing by the institution.