28 November
A Bamboozled take on the State of the Arts
November 28, 2024
It’s that time of year across the country; Year 12 students are being corralled into tidy, top-buttoned up rows and invited to step boldly across stages and gym floors, erupting from auditoriums of applause into the “real world”.
This fresh batch of graduates are entering a very different workforce to that of the generations that came before them, and for those that count themselves amongst that kookiest of groups— ‘creatives’ —there’s a lot to be optimistic about, but as ever, a fresh set of challenges they’re up against in the arts industry.
As a business owner working in the events industry—whether it’s providing tents for festivals or helping to produce small- and medium-scale events—I’ve seen firsthand how much harder it’s become to sustain the arts in Australia. While the creative spirit is alive and well, the economic pressures on both artists and small businesses are creating a tougher environment than ever before.
The arts in Australia have long been a vibrant reflection of our culture, but right now, it feels like a storm is brewing. Costs are rising across the board, from equipment and production to insurance and travel. For many small businesses, the ability to run affordable events is slipping further out of reach. We’re seeing it especially in the festival sector—local, smaller-scale festivals and events that rely on grassroots performers and independent artists are struggling to stay afloat.
For independent artists, the struggle is just as real. Many rely on short-term gigs to make a living, but with costs going up, opportunities are fewer and far between. Whether it’s children’s entertainers for a family festival or roving performers for corporate events, the fees that used to cover their costs and their time no longer suffice. Many are being forced to reduce their fees just to secure a booking, often undermining their own sustainability. I know my own fees still look much the same as they did 10 years ago– would that we could say the same for the cost of living…
This inflationary pressure doesn’t just affect the artists; it affects the audiences, too. As ticket prices rise, the same families and communities who once attended festivals and enjoyed live performances are being priced out of the arts. When people can’t afford to participate, the entire cultural ecosystem suffers. After all, how can we nurture a new generation of artists if the community that supports them can’t access their work?
But despite these challenges, there is much to be hopeful about. Artists and small businesses are adapting in creative and innovative ways. The rise of digital and hybrid events has allowed artists to reach broader audiences, breaking down geographical barriers and offering new revenue streams. Local communities continue to support homegrown talent, whether through crowdfunding, attending small-scale events, or simply choosing to support independent creators. The growing recognition of Indigenous and multicultural voices in the arts means that new and diverse perspectives are gaining prominence, enriching Australia’s cultural landscape.
The resilience of Australian artists is a shining example of the sector’s strength. In the face of adversity, many are finding new ways to connect with their audiences, embracing new technologies and formats to keep their work relevant. This adaptability is a key reason why, despite the hurdles, I believe there’s still room for optimism in the future of the arts in Australia.
The answer lies in sustainability. Artists and small businesses need consistent support—whether through more accessible funding, lowered production costs, or better opportunities for local performers. The arts should be valued as an essential part of our cultural fabric, not as a luxury or an afterthought.
If we want a thriving, creative economy, we need to ensure that the next generation of artists has the tools, resources, and support to succeed. Otherwise, we risk losing the vibrant, diverse cultural landscape that makes Australia truly unique.
Image credit: Fraser Hooper