CREATIVE Scotland recently announced its funding programme for culture and the arts in the regions across Scotland - with 119 organisations sharing almost £100 million over the next three years.
It seems a lot of money, but even for the groups who benefit, it will never be enough. In the north-east, we understand the important role the arts and culture play in delivering a place where people will want to live and work. Our evidence suggests it's one of the things that makes a place an even better place to attract people, their skills and make them want to stay.
I was a bit disappointed to see once again a disproportionate amount of funds had been awarded to Edinburgh and Glasgow, where two-thirds of the cash will be spread across almost 80 groups. Here, we have almost 10 per cent of Scotland's population, but won just four per cent of the funding and only seven groups in our region gained support. My disappointment wasn't huge though, as awards were made to some terrific producing theatres such as the Fringe, the Tramway, and The Tron, and creativity on that scale doesn't come cheap.
At one time our cities were defined by industry, Glasgow for shipbuilding and engineering, Dundee was jam, journalism and jute, Edinburgh for brewing and banking and Aberdeen for fishing and farming.
It's ironic therefore that Edinburgh is probably better known today for the festival and fringe, Glasgow as the cultural centre of Scotland with the Art School, Scottish Ballet, Theatre and orchestras and Dundee will soon unveil the V&A. Aberdeen is unique in still being known first for its industry. We have lots going on and a terrific arts trust operates three good venues, with a variety of shows. I'm sure they are delighted to have £1 million of Creative Scotland support for the next three years. Of course a real game changer for Aberdeen would be a full-time producing theatre, but that costs.
Creative Scotland grants to the Lyceum in Edinburgh, The Citizens in Glasgow and The Dundee Rep suggest at least £1 million of public support is needed every year as a starting point. So my call to the wider community in Scotland is this: Know where your money is being used to support the arts, make sure you get a share of the output and contribute to their success by joining in. And if you're in business, think of how creative people might use their artistry to help you build a better business and invest in Scotland's creative output. It will be a better place for your support.
Liam Smyth is membership director at Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce
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