Flemish culture minister unveils plan to ease sector pressure

Flemish Culture minister Caroline Gennez has set out a new strategy to tackle growing pressure in the cultural sector, following concerns that artists are caught in a “rat race”.

Research by Kunstenpunt found the sector is overheating. Creators are often rushing work to the public to stay visible. If reactions are weak, they quickly move on, putting visibility above artistic quality.

Gennez agrees this is a key issue but says extra funding is unlikely. Instead, she wants cultural institutions to give young and emerging artists more long-term support, rather than one-off opportunities. Major venues are expected to play a leading role.

Future subsidy applications may also be judged on how well organisations support new talent, collaborate with education, and reach beyond their own walls.

The minister is also calling for more cooperation across the sector, moving away from competition so institutions can focus on what they do best.

In music, local venues will be strengthened into “Houses of Music”, offering rehearsal space, coaching and career support for artists and industry professionals.

Gennez stressed that artistic freedom will remain untouched. She called it “a right” she intends to protect.

^{#FlandersNewsService | © BELGA PHOTO ELIAS ROM}