How can journalists/the media support grassroots arts and creatives over the next critical couple of years?
(notes from Open Space, 25 March 2023)
Shows don't get mainstream coverage unless small outlets cover them first.
SOLUTION: can there be a public list of arts journalists and publications? Awesome where can upload releases? Who would fund this? Would journalists use this? Could the Fringe support this as they have money and existing infrastructure?
How do we stop sites changing our carefully structured show info?
Role of the media in scrutinising the arts sector- some don't want to get involved in politics also capacity issues.
SOLUTION: Curate a group/panel of journalists to ask these questions direct.
How do journalists decide what to cover?
Remit of publication, availability of journalists. Journalists have power to bomb/discredit grassroots organisations-they can be an obstacle. Coverage of eg Filmhouse so critical to progress.
Protest on 15th April-about government support for arts-it's really unique to have an arts protest, even though arts is an essential service. UK needs more of a street/ public protest culture. Toxic narrative that it's a choice between eg the NH S and the arts. Especially now arts vital for dialogue and empathy.
Not much emphasis on the right to arts/ culture as in some other European countries. Often pitted against as if it's either/ or. Need more willingness to protest for the arts.
5 Bullet Points Summary
It is critical for journalism to be timely so public can contribute
difficult for grassroots organisations to get mainstream journalistic coverage- smaller outlets often have to lead the way with little resource
Central portal for grassroots artists and organisations to share releases and info
Can we convene group panel of arts journalists to discuss what solutions might work/ be useful
Desperately important for media to scrutinise arts funding and ownership but huge capacity issues- timely journalism helps public to engage with arts sector issues as with eg Filmhouse