Arts organisations in Birmingham, UK, are under threat following the announcement by the city council that it plans to make £300m worth of cuts to services over the next two years.
According to the BBC, grants to regularly-funded arts organisations in the city will subsequently face 50% cuts this year and 100% next financial year, affecting Ikon gallery, a key contemporary art space.
“This is a challenging time for the city of Birmingham as a whole,” says Ian Hyde, the chief executive officer of Ikon. “Arts and culture is likely to lose all city council funding by the end of 2025… For Ikon, this will impact on how the gallery serves the city’s communities and our audiences,” he adds. “Ikon is 60 years old this year. We are determined to stay open and free for everyone.” Its current exhibition is dedicated to the British-Jamaican artist Exodus Crooks (until 21 April).
Ikon currently receives £19,731 per year from the council. “Ikon’s funding has been gradually reduced by the city council, from over £300,000 in 2012 to the above received in 2023/24.” a spokesperson says.
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