Visual artists in Britain have faced a significant decline in earnings since 2010. A report by the Design and Artists Copyright Society (DACS) reveals that their median annual income is a mere £12,500, with 80% of the 1,200 surveyed creatives stating their earnings are unstable or very unstable. This situation is particularly dire for women, who earn 40% less than men, and disabled artists, who take home a median of £3,750. Those who work second and third jobs, like teaching, earn an average of £17,500, far below the UK-wide average income of just over £37,000.

Unraveling the Crisis Facing British Visual Artists

Section 1: The Impact of EU Countries

Experts predict a "talent drain" from the UK as EU countries offer more attractive working environments. This disparity is evident in the earnings data, with visual artists in the UK struggling to make a viable living. The median income of £12,500 is far below what is needed to sustain a career. Many artists feel compelled to leave the country in search of better opportunities.There is a real discrepancy between the UK and other countries. People might have to leave because there are better conditions, particularly in the EU. This situation highlights the need for the UK to address the issues facing visual artists and make the country more attractive for them to work in.

Section 2: The Role of Funding Cuts and Inflation

Artists are finding their earnings squeezed by a combination of funding cuts, inflation, and the rise of AI. One artist interviewed said their rent had risen by 40% in the last four years, forcing them to rely on universal credit. Arts Council England's funding has been slashed by 30% since the 2010 survey.AI is a big factor that has started to affect entry-level and lower-paid jobs. But it's not the only issue. Charities are going under, businesses are closing down, and the financial pressure on the arts is growing. It's like a game of KerPlunk where you keep taking out different bits of funding and see how little you can sustain a career with.

Section 3: The Experience of Individual Artists

The British-Ghanaian artist Larry Achiampong had a breakout year in 2022 with his Wayfinder solo show, but he still faced challenges. He was offered £350 to participate in a group exhibition that would tour four institutions. Despite understanding the funding cuts faced by organizations, he believes the treatment of artists and their pay is often an afterthought.After almost 20 years as a professional artist, Achiampong has started to consider changing careers. He realistically looks at making money in other areas like gaming because he can't continue on the current path. He says, "Ten years from now, as a parent of two, I can't go on like this. Something has to give."This shows the real struggles faced by individual artists and the need for change in the art industry.