Post-Facebook? Lots of arts groups and artists use Facebook, but is it working for them? A new study says no – at least for those trying to raise money. The Facebook application “Causes”  isn’t as effective as non-profits hoped and trails direct mail, events and other traditional fundraising, reports the Washington Post.

Meanwhile, could Ning be next? Or at least a good option for groups that want to create their own social networks. I’ve noticed both newer affinity groups, like Dallas Art Salon, and more established institutions like The Ft. Worth Opera use Ning.  Any other North Texas Ning art networks out there? We’d like to start following you, so let us know.

To comment, or no? Whether to allow blog comments, and what purpose they serve, got lots of chatter yesterday when the folks at D magazine turned off the comments function on their popular blog Frontburner. Coincidentally, TheaterJones’ Elaine Liner also posted an interesting piece about why she doesn’t think it’s a good idea to talk back to critics.

Gives me an opportunity to say here at Art&Seek, we think comments are  important and we’ve been fortunate enough to have some extremely thoughtful commenters, with little of the vitriol that led D to make its decision. We moderate our comments – something Frontburner hopes to be able to do in the future.  But there have been very few remarks we haven’t been able to post.  So thanks for keeping it classy! We would, however, like to hear more chatter from you.  How can we get you talking? If you have thoughts,  email me at [email protected]. Or …um…leave a comment.

Tweet arias: Twitter your favorite opera plot and win tickets to more than 20 opera houses around the world. A freelance writer is staging her second challenge to capture the plot in 140 characters or less. Here are the rules.  Here are a few from the last contest, in honor of Ft. Worth Opera season opener Carmen:

“If a cigarette doesn’t kill you, the girl who made it will.”

“The bull doesn’t win. Neither does anyone else.”

“Don Jose: I hate Carmen. I love Carmen! I miss Carmen… I hate Carmen. Knife.”

Some others. Send us yours.