In light of the recent £6.6 million cuts to Creative Scotland’s budget by the Scottish Government, which has led to the unfortunate closure of the Open Fund, we stand in unwavering support of independent artists and the vital role they play in our cultural landscape. These cuts have a profound impact on our creative community, particularly arts charities like us, who work in a rural context; we rely heavily on small scale-touring work.
Independent artists are the lifeblood of our cultural heritage, bringing unique perspectives, innovation, and vibrancy to our communities. The Open Fund has been a crucial resource, enabling artists to pursue their creative endeavours, reach new audiences, and sustain their livelihoods. The closure of this fund threatens the very fabric of our artistic ecosystem, particularly in rural areas where opportunities for cultural engagement are already limited.
We urgently call on the Scottish Government to confirm its cultural investment for this financial year, and to bring forward the release of as much of the promised £100 million in increased cultural funding as possible. Investing in the arts is not a luxury; it is a necessity for the well-being, enrichment and cohesiveness of our communities. Creative Scotland has been instrumental in supporting artists and fostering a thriving cultural sector. Restoring funding to Creative Scotland is essential to ensure that the arts remain accessible to all, regardless of background and geographic location.
We call on policymakers, stakeholders, and the public to join us in advocating for the restoration of funding to Creative Scotland. Together, we can ensure that independent artists continue to inspire, challenge, and uplift us, and the cultural landscape of Scotland remains equitable, inclusive and diverse.
Cathy Guthrie (Chair)
Emyr Bell (Creative Director & CEO)
