Show latest news, more from October 2010.
At the art of a resurgent Wales
Launched at the Council’s Marketing Symposium at Theatr Brycheiniog on Thursday, 21 October, the survey shows that arts attendance and participation over the last five years has grown to record level, and access to the arts has broadened irrespective of their social background or where they live.
Overall, the amount of people attending arts events at least once a year has increased from 76% in 2005 to 86% in 2010. The numbers of people taking part in arts activity has also risen from 20% in 2005 to 39% in 2010.
More people are watching films, going to live gigs, art galleries and exhibitions, plays, musicals, and taking part in visual arts, crafts, music and dance than 5 years ago.
Arts attendance and participation levels are generally highest among those who have a comfortable lifestyle, have received higher education or young people between 16-24 years. But the survey shows that people in the lowest social groups are now twice as likely as they were 5 years ago to take part in the arts. It is also encouraging to find that people who are from a black or minority ethnic background and people living in the most disadvantaged ‘Communities First’ areas have attendance and participation levels that are either the same as the general population or higher.
Nick Capaldi, Chief Executive, Arts Council of Wales said:
"For many people, ‘doing’ is as important as ‘seeing’ – sometimes more so. The increase in arts engagement amongst people from disadvantaged communities reflects, we believe, several years of targeted work in these areas. In particular, we have attached special importance to community based activity that deepens participants’ own engagement and creativity."
Valleys Kids, a charity based in South Wales with a 33-year track record of working with disadvantaged children and families is a great example of how investment in community development can transform people’s engagement with the arts. They work to inspire confidence and belief in Valleys communities using participatory arts programmes. Its Penygraig centre, Soar Chapel, was however in a seriously run-down state. The redeveloped building, thanks to Arts Council of Wales Lottery funding has generated local enthusiasm for the arts, with more people eager to participate in Valleys Kids projects and a greater sense of achievement among the community. The number of participatory activities at Penygraig has increased 41% and the number of people involved has trebled.
The arts matter. Well over 80% of those asked said that they believe arts and culture make Wales a better place to live, and that it was right that they should be supported through public funding. 92% agree that taking part in arts and cultural activities helps to build confidence.
Arts Council of Wales believes the arts make a difference, and that they should be accessible to everybody in Wales and everybody should have the opportunity to take part in and enjoy them. The arts can be at the core of a Welsh resurgence, even in a recession. The evidence is indeed here.
Ann Kellaway, Senior Research and Audience Development Officer said:
"This is only the second time that Arts Council of Wales has undertaken such research, and we are naturally very pleased with the results. It’s great to see such an increase in participation and attendance in the arts, especially during such hard financial times. We will continue to use this valuable data to ensure that we keep the arts vibrant and strong for tomorrow."
Ends
For further information, please contact Sian James, Press and Media Officer on 029 2044 1344 or email sian.james@artswales.org.uk
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