At The Place we have been giving a lot of thought to the value of arts and culture in the UK. All over the country people are experiencing the arts in a myriad of ways. Arts and culture enhance every aspect of our lives in ways that are often unexpected and unacknowledged. We’ve seen first hand the positive affect that this can have on individuals and communities. With the hundreds of young people that we work with for example, we know that important skills and attributes such as self-awareness, confidence, courage, tenacity, grit, self-discipline, empathy, creative thinking and teamwork are developed and enhanced thorough participating in cultural activities.
The arts and culture are such a powerful part of how we enjoy, share and understand the world around us that we need to make sure we can protect and sustain the quality of provision for future generations. We’ll continue to do our utmost to ensure a sustainable, vibrant future for the arts in the UK, one which champions access for everyone. We’re constantly lobbying to make sure that the importance of the arts is understood and is on the agenda of politicians and decision makers.
Now the results from the local elections have been confirmed it’s the ideal time to open up the conversation with your local MP about how arts and culture will be supported in your area. As they finalise their party manifestos for the General Election in Spring 2015 politicians are always keen to hear directly from their constituents. You might wish to ask them for example, if there is a local strategy for arts and culture provision in your area, or how they will ensure every child in their constituency regularly participates in quality arts and cultural activities in school.
Together we can make our voices heard.
Kenneth Olumuyiwa Tharp
Chief Executive, The Place