Strategic Vision Statement for the Arts

The eight key points regarding operating grants under the Arts Decree are:

1. Strengthening the position and development of artists and cultural workers.
   To strengthen the socio-economic and social position of artists and cultural workers – whether employed or self-employed – based on a broad interpretation of fair practices.

2. Cultural democracy and the democratisation of culture.
   Removing barriers to participation in cultural activities, and paying attention to (new) artistic forms and innovative organisational structures that lead to cultural democracy.

3. Art and Cultural Heritage at the heart of society.
   Committing to sustainable collaboration between culture and education, and between culture and wellbeing. 

4. Shared, mixed and temporary use of space.
   (1) Using space in a creative and innovative way. (2) Opening up one’s own cultural infrastructure to other users. (3) Giving vacant spaces a cultural purpose.

5. Volunteers.
   A holistic approach to involve volunteers in the organisation’s operations and activities. This approach places sufficient emphasis on support structures and innovative models.

6. Art heritage.
   Focusing on the high-quality preparation of future legacies, whilst also paying attention to the intangible aspects of artistic practice. Or addressing gaps in the range of services on offer.

7. Test beds for innovation and experimentation.
   Incubators for young talent or for bringing new and experimental work to an audience in an accessible way.

8. Creation
   Commissioning artists or creators, or providing them with the space to produce new works, whilst ensuring a robust framework is in place. Tackling ‘overheating’ by providing better support for production and distribution.