Highlights of a nationwide public opinion survey concerning the interest and involvement of Americans in the arts are summarized. Telephone interviews were conducted with 1,504 adults. Results showed that the arts are indisputably a part of the mainstream of American life. Because Americans have limited leisure time, the arts must increasingly compete with other leisure industries for attention. Despite this, Americans continue to turn out for most arts presentations in ever-increasing numbers, although lately the rate of arts attendance and participation has been slower than in the late 1970's. Even though over 90 percent believe that to see a live performance is more meaningful and exciting than watching it on television, both television and videocassette recordings present a growing challenge to the arts. Americans show a firm commitment to the arts and view them as a source of deep individual satisfaction. They want more arts facilities and presentations, and are willing to finance the arts at every government level. There is high public commitment to keeping the arts as an integral part of the school curriculum. (RM)