Scotland's leading artists have demanded urgent talks with the country's arts funding organisation after more than 200 names were added to a letter condemning the quango.
David Greig, the leading playwright, said he and other organisers behind the letter wanted to discuss the future with the entire board of Creative Scotland.
Others on the letter include Ian Rankin, Alasdair Gray, Don Paterson, the Makar Liz Lochhead, three Turner Prize winning artists and other leading composers, writers and artists.
It claimed that the organisation was "damaged at heart" and guilty of "ill-conceived decision making, unclear language, lack of empathy and regard for Scottish culture."
In response, Sir Sandy Crombie, chairman of Creative Scotland, admitted the quango could do better in a number of areas but that the two-year-old organisation had performed well in a broad range of activities.
Last night, Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop told the body to get its problems "sorted" in her strongest statement yet on the situation.
Ms Hyslop said: "I am taking very seriously the criticism of Creative Scotland.
"That is why I have asked the Board to engage directly with the sector, to address the points raised and communicate what action is already being taken. This process is already under way, including a review of operations by the Board.
"The Scottish Government cannot and does not interfere in Creative Scotland's artistic decisions – as set out in legislation. Sir Sandy Crombie and I have had constructive exchanges about the concerns of the sector and I know he understands what I expect of the organisation."
Creative Scotland is charged by the Scottish Government to spend £83 million in public and Lottery money on supporting the arts.
A key point of contention among artists is the quango's change from fixed-term funding to a project-based approach.
Mr Dixon, the chief executive of Creative Scotland, said he is staying on in his position for the long term and defended his top team, including creative director, Venu Dhupa, who was once at the centre of controversy as head of arts for the British Council.
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