Envisioning a Fully-Funded SK Arts
Envisioning a Fully-Funded SK Arts
The Saskatchewan Arts Alliance (SAA) has released Envisioning a Fully-Funded SK Arts, a report that outlines the urgent need for increased provincial investment in SK Arts. This report, developed in consultation with SK Arts leadership and staff, highlights the significant funding shortfall that has persisted over the past 15 years and its impact on artists, arts organizations, and cultural programming across the province. Key findings include:
- Declining Funding Levels: SK Arts’ funding has remained below $7 million for a decade, losing both real value and purchasing power due to inflation. If funding had kept pace with inflation, it would now be over $9.2 million.
- Economic Impact: Despite underfunding, SK Arts contributes $17.6 million in economic output, $9.7 million in GDP, and supports 194 full-time jobs in Saskatchewan.
- Funding Priorities: SK Arts has identified three areas requiring urgent investment:
- Increased grants for artists and organizations, including higher success rates for major programs.
- Proper storage and care of the province’s permanent art collection.
- Strengthening internal capacity, including hiring additional staff to manage programs and outreach.
The report proposes two funding models:
- A “Current Needs” budget requiring a 74% increase to $11.78 million, which would expand grant programs and operations, generating $25.8 million in economic output and supporting 286 full-time jobs.
- An “Envisioned Growth” budget requiring a 90% increase to $12.86 million, allowing for expanded accessibility, outreach, and policy development, resulting in $27.5 million in economic output and 305 full-time jobs.
The full report underscores that increased investment in SK Arts is not only necessary for sustainability but also a high-return investment in Saskatchewan’s cultural and economic landscape.
