IN a recent development, Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) have issued a call for “substantially improved relations” between Creative Scotland and the Scottish Government. This demand comes a year after a commitment was made to address concerns within the arts sector.
Creative Scotland, a Non-Departmental Public Body sponsored by the Scottish Government, plays a crucial role in supporting culture and creativity in Scotland, receiving funding from both the Scottish Government and the UK National Lottery to fulfil its mission as a development organisation, funder, and advocate for the arts.
The call for improved relations stems from an inquiry conducted by MSPs into the treatment of the arts industry. The inquiry’s findings have shed light on the current state of the relationship between Creative Scotland and the Scottish Government, highlighting areas that require attention.
The inquiry has raised several issues:
- Funding Challenges: The creative and cultural sector is facing pressures due to standstill grant levels and challenges to trading activity, including the impact of Brexit.
- Communication: There appears to be a need for better communication and coordination between Creative Scotland and the Scottish Government, particularly in areas of mutual interest.
- International Opportunities: The inquiry highlighted the importance of international collaboration and the need for support in developing innovative and sustainable ways to promote artistic and cultural exchange.
While specific recommendations have not been detailed, the MSPs’ call for improved relations suggests a need for:
- Enhanced communication channels between Creative Scotland and the Scottish Government
- A more collaborative approach to addressing funding challenges
- Clearer alignment of priorities and strategies
This call for improved relations comes at a critical time for Scotland’s creative industries. As the sector faces ongoing challenges, including recovery from the pandemic and adapting to post-Brexit realities, a stronger partnership between Creative Scotland and the Scottish Government could be crucial in supporting and nurturing Scotland’s rich cultural landscape.
The outcome of this call for action will be closely watched by stakeholders in the arts and cultural sectors, as it has the potential to shape the future of creative support and funding in Scotland.
