As you may have heard, Creative Scotland has announced the Open Fund for Individuals will close at the end of this month (30 August).
This fund is the key source of support for freelance artists in Scotland. It has supported many of our members over the years, and ensured that cultural experiences reach people and communities all across the region. This vital fund supports the additional costs of making things happen in rural areas and helps to connect artists outside the central belt to the wider sector. Without it, many performers, musicians, dancers, artists and theatre makers are unable to continue their work.
If you’ve attended a show/workshop that’s toured to your community or enjoyed a showcase at The Gathering, those performances are likely to have been supported by the Open Fund.
There is no art without artists. We all need to work together to ensure this life-line is reinstated. We urge you to write to your local MSP, demanding they share your concerns with the government. There is a template letter that you’re welcome to use/modify here. You can find your MSP’s email address by entering your postcode here. If you are a constituent they are duty bound to reply to you, but you must include your address at the top of the email. You can also sign Campaign for Arts petition here.
We understand this is an uncertain time for everyone. Performers, if you are/were planning to submit an application and need any help/advice/someone to listen please get in touch. Promoters, if you are able to support your local artists in any way please let them know.
We will continue to support freelance artists as best we can. Our Seed Fund is open to applications from performers, working in collaboration with promoter members. To find out more and apply see here.