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. @RishiSunak's #arts & #culture rescue package was a good way to end the weekend... and has enabled me to wake up this morning much more optimistic about the future of the UK arts sector.
But I have some concerns.
1/6
But I have some concerns.
1/6
First: geography.
Every single example of an arts org mentioned by @OliverDowden on BBC this morning was not only in the South East of England... but was actually in LONDON.
It has to cover every corner of the UK & especially those where big ££ philanthropy doesn't reach.
2/6
Every single example of an arts org mentioned by @OliverDowden on BBC this morning was not only in the South East of England... but was actually in LONDON.
It has to cover every corner of the UK & especially those where big ££ philanthropy doesn't reach.
2/6
Second: what constitutes 'culture' to this govt?
Again. There seems to be emphasis on venue-based orgs & 'high art' (for want of a better phrase). Galleries, ballet, opera, big museums.
Yes, they need help.
But to be effective this ££ has to reach the small guys too.
3/6
Again. There seems to be emphasis on venue-based orgs & 'high art' (for want of a better phrase). Galleries, ballet, opera, big museums.
Yes, they need help.
But to be effective this ££ has to reach the small guys too.
3/6
Third: mechanism & rationale for distribution.
Who decides who gets what? Will it be by application... or influence. Some arts orgs are in a better position to lobby for support than others (see above). Others are far more prominent than others.
It has to be fair. & quick.
4/6
Who decides who gets what? Will it be by application... or influence. Some arts orgs are in a better position to lobby for support than others (see above). Others are far more prominent than others.
It has to be fair. & quick.
4/6
Fourth: the amount.
£1.57bn seems a lot. It IS a lot. But it has to go round a huge sector with big needs.
Will it be enough? Who knows.
Also: will it stymie philanthropy with a 'by-stander effect', ie they're alright now, when the problem isn't solved by this ££.
5/6
£1.57bn seems a lot. It IS a lot. But it has to go round a huge sector with big needs.
Will it be enough? Who knows.
Also: will it stymie philanthropy with a 'by-stander effect', ie they're alright now, when the problem isn't solved by this ££.
5/6
It IS brilliant news & a major victory for our sector. Don't get me wrong.
But this govt has form on actually delivering on what it promises and a lot remains to be seen about how effective this rescue package will be when it comes to #savetheartsUK.
I remain optimistic...
6/6
But this govt has form on actually delivering on what it promises and a lot remains to be seen about how effective this rescue package will be when it comes to #savetheartsUK.
I remain optimistic...
6/6
