When perceptions on the attractions and benefits of living in rural and regional communities are discussed, rarely are art and culture at the top of the list. But this desire to enjoy arts and cultural pursuits is just as strong in the country as it is in the city – it’s just the opportunities may be fewer and further between.
That’s not to say that thriving arts communities can’t be found in regional areas throughout our state, with lovers of the arts finding all sorts of creative options for the staging of local shows, exhibitions, demonstrations and classes. But there’s no doubt government assistance – at all levels – is vital for contributing to critical arts infrastructure in the regions, and attracting the outside productions and exhibitions that help enrich any local arts scene.
It’s well known that art and culture benefit communities from an economic, social and educational perspective, improving the wellbeing of residents of all ages and backgrounds, enhancing the vibrancy of these communities and providing a critical outlet for all manner of artistic passions and expression. When it comes to recreation and relaxation outside of work, communities need a range of different options to satisfy the range of different age groups, cultural identities, interests and abilities within the local population. The opportunity to indulge in artistic and cultural pursuits is just as vital for a small community as is the chance to play in the local football or netball competition.
What can prove challenging in the regions is the provision of appropriate arts venues, and this is where funding opportunities become so important. Local arts, cultural and community groups in regional areas also understand the value in joining forces when it comes to securing the critical infrastructure they need. They may choose to utilise existing buildings that require some renovation, rather than aiming for a new build, and they know that designing multi-use facilities that cater for a range of activities is more practical than single-use spaces.
Funding programs that can then assist with these aims have been and remain crucial to strengthening the cultural fabric of our regions. Last week’s Federal Budget has been criticised by the arts sector for funding cuts, and the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance, the union that represents arts workers, has estimated a drop in the regional arts allocation from $18 million this financial year to $7.5 million next year.
There are of course so many sectors crying out for more assistance from governments and there is only so much money to go around. But it’s hoped the arts – and the arts in non-metropolitan areas – remain in the hunt for at least some of the funding pie in the future. The world that we currently find ourselves in has vastly changed, and as we all get our heads around navigating that, we need the temporary escape and social engagement opportunities the arts provide more than ever. Far from seeing the support of artistic and cultural pursuits as a luxury, they should be valued for bringing people together, contributing to community enrichment and reducing the isolation we’ve all had too much of in the past few years.