Skip to main content
Work with the NEU
Welsh and Scottish culture sector on the rocks
A properly funded arts strategy is needed to create the infrastructure for creative industry to grow, argues BEN LUNN
light and sound performance by public art charity NVA takes place at St Peter’s Seminary in Cardross, Argyll and Bute in 2016. The derelict building was turned into a permanent arts venue after the Heritage Lottery Fund and Creative Scotland pledged £4.2 million of funding

THE situation for the arts continues to get bleaker as Scotland and Wales have added another nail to their own proverbial coffins. 

Last week the Arts Council of Wales (ACW) announced its list of organisations that would receive conditional grants, allocating a total of almost £30 million funding from Welsh government and the National Lottery.

The dropping of Mid-Wales Opera and National Theatre of Wales from its list was alarming as they have been vital stepping stones for Welsh artists to get their work tried and tested. 

The 95th Anniversary Appeal
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
Similar stories
Coins in a Saltire purse
Features / 7 May 2026
7 May 2026

Years of underfunding are eroding Scotland’s local services and deepening inequality in communities, says VINCE MILLS

ACCESS IN JEOPARDY: National Library of Wales sees its ability to even open the doors compromised / Pic: Ian Capper/CC
Features / 27 February 2026
27 February 2026

Wales is second from the bottom in terms of cultural services in the EU. HELEDD FYCHAN believes that needs to change if the country is to prosper

Oliver Snelling, The Floating One, 2023, Carved Purbeck Grub Bed (limestone)
Features / 2 August 2025
2 August 2025

OLIVER SNELLING, a south London stonecarver and yeoman stonemason, relates how he is helping bring about a new festival next month