The Big Arts Recovery
17th August 2021 | Words by Roberta Hollis
Street art in West Yorkshire by artist Rachel List
How would we have made it through a year of lockdowns without the arts? From streets filled with rainbows of hope to long Netflix binges and new-found crafty hobbies – whether we have realised it or not, the arts have helped us all through what has been an exceptionally difficult year.
But the UK’s arts and culture sector has been one of the areas worst affected by the coronavirus pandemic, behind only the accommodation and hospitality sectors. From theatre productions to exhibitions and galleries – revenues across the sector have been dramatically impacted. According to the Office for National Statistics, the arts and entertainment industry has seen a massive 44.5% reduction in monthly GDP output.
Cultural institutions in the UK were closed for the majority of 2020
Luckily, it isn’t bad news across the whole art scene. According to ArtSocial Trustee and Sotheby’s Senior Director, Alina Davey, art sales at Sotheby’s have still been going strong. After moving auctions to an online platform, the auction house has extended its range of lots and has still received huge interest in sales.
Although leading artworks have managed to hold their value, many smaller artists have seen a reduction in sales. Often self-employed and living commission-to-commission, many small artists and performers have struggled financially throughout the pandemic. Being unable to work has also had an impact on their mental health.
Why We Need The Arts More Than Ever
The arts help us understand the world around us and communicate feelings too difficult to put into words. Getting involved in the arts can help us to understand who we are – or can simply help us escape from reality as we immerse ourselves in something we enjoy. The arts have been proven to positively impact our subjective mental wellbeing and help people feel more connected to their local community – which is just what we need after a long period of isolation!
“Science helps us solve problems, but the arts is how we cope with them.”
Support local creatives when visiting new areas
How Can I Help The Arts Recover?
Knowing just how vital the arts are for society, we must all do what we can to help them recover.
Besides fitting in visits to exhibitions, galleries and theatres where we can – here are a few other ideas to up your support of the arts.
Share Your Favourite Small Artists’ Posts on Social Media
Even if you’re not in a position to buy artwork, supporting your favourite small artists on social media can make a huge difference. By engaging with their posts their work will get seen by more people. Sharing something you love on your Instagram story will help new people discover their work – you never know, you might just help them secure their next sale!
Buy Artwork from a Local Artist as Holiday Souvenirs
Looking for a souvenir to remember your holiday? Ask around, and you may be able to find a local artist or ceramicist. What better way to preserve your memories than through a piece of artwork?
Subscribe to an arts magazine to help support the creative industries
Gift Memberships to Friends and Family for Birthdays and Christmas
Give the gift of art with a membership to your loved ones local or favourite gallery. Or, for a friend who likes to travel, the National Art Pass lets you enjoy free entry to hundreds of museums around the UK.
Gift Theatre or Cinema Tickets
Instead of buying a membership, you could also gift tickets to a theatre, dance or music production. Cinemas such as Everyman or Picturehouse also sell memberships that include free tickets, discounts and more.
Subscribe to an Arts Magazine
There are plenty to choose from; Frieze, The Art Newspaper, ArtReview, Elephant or Art Licks are good places to start.
ArtSocial Patrons support the arts while helping children with special education needs and disabilites
Check Out Events at Local Galleries
Many galleries such as Tate, The RA and The Hepworth host a year-round calendar of events – from curator talks to art workshops for children. It's a good idea to subscribe to newsletters to be the first to hear about upcoming events.
Join the ArtSocial Patrons Club
Join our community of culture curious change-makers and help transform children's lives through the arts. As a member, you will enjoy a year-round programme of events and experiences in the company of like-minded people. Like you, ArtSocial Patrons are hungry for culture, love to learn and are eager to make a difference. As a Patron, you will be supporting the arts while helping more children and young people experience similar joys.