CONCERN has been expressed by an arts group in the region at the news of Creative Scotland’s closure of the Open Fund for Individuals.
It has now closed to new applications.
And the team at DG Unlimited want to hear from anyone locally that’s affected.
They believe the decision will have “far reaching and detrimental impacts” on the creative community, businesses and families in this region and beyond.
A spokesperson said: “Artists, creators, performers, creative practitioners and professionals are the life blood of our cultural and creative industries.
“In an industry where inequality already exists, this action will make it harder to create fair and inclusive access and pursue a creative career path.
“Creative Scotland’s Open Fund for Individuals has become an essential resource for creative practitioners to develop their practice, create new work, launch the careers of emerging artists, and nurture ongoing excellence and creativity in Scotland. Without this fund, we anticipate the production of innovative and exciting art, and cultural experiences will quickly and drastically diminish right across Scotland at an alarming rate.”
DG Unlimited is planning their response but wants to hear the views and experiences of artists, adding: “We, all of us, cannot allow our creative sector in Scotland to be damaged in this way, and to stagnate. “We ask you to help us respond to this on your behalf with one voice. Please tell us how the loss of this fund is affecting you. If you have been a recipient, how has the fund helped you in the past?”
Feedback will be shared anonymously with representatives of the Scottish Government and Creative Scotland.
To contribute, email [email protected] as soon as possible.
Anyone requiring support or signposting is also urged to get in touch.
