A new report has revealed the financial struggles of artists in Yorkshire and the Humber.
The findings show that artists in the region are under financial pressure and are competing for limited opportunities and resources.
In June 2024, Yorkshire Visual Arts Network (YVAN) conducted a survey to better understand artists and art workers in the region.
More artists have seen their income decrease in the last two years rather than increase, and only 4.4 per cent of respondents make more than £30,000 from visual arts, despite the average salary for the region being £36,900.
Findings from the Yorkshire Visual Arts Network (YVAN) 2024 survey report (Image: YVAN)
A total of 248 people filled out the survey, which focused on pay, employment, funding, and barriers to working in the visual arts.
The report highlights key data that will be used to advocate for changes that aim to improve conditions and improve equality of opportunity.
According to the findings, barriers to working in the visual arts include a lack of affordable studios, finances, and funding opportunities in the area.
According to YVAN, the report provides evidence that suggests changes need to be made to make the visual arts a sustainable career path.
The organisation suggests more funding is needed to develop affordable studio spaces so artists are not competing for limited opportunities.
With the introduction of a new government in 2024, YVAN’s national body, Contemporary Visual Arts Network (CVAN), has been lobbying MPs to improve conditions and recognise the specific needs of the visual arts sector.
The evidence in this report will be used to support their case.
Sharon Gill, CEO of YVAN, said: “Raising awareness of the precarity and inequity experienced by the visual arts sector within the wider creative industries is essential.
“We need to recognise that artists are the backbone of the nation’s cultural economy, yet they continue to remain endangered.
“Data and information help us tell the story to the policymakers, budget holders, and investors, and we can all share our story.”
Those who work in the sector are encouraged to highlight and use the findings in this report as leverage to attract more investment for the arts in the region.
Read the full report at www.yvan.org.uk.
