What is the 'basic income for the arts' being considered in Scotland?

It is a potential scheme where the government would pay artists directly, similar to Ireland's successful pilot program.

What was the outcome of Ireland's 'Basic Income for the Arts' pilot?

The pilot was deemed successful, leading to it being made permanent and artists reporting increased happiness and time spent on creative work.

Why are Scottish artists and cultural leaders advocating for this scheme?

They cite financial precarity, low pay, and the high cost of living as reasons, fearing a decline in cultural output and loss of new creative voices.

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Scotland Eyes Basic Income for Artists

26 Jan

Summary

Scotland considers direct payments to artists mirroring Irish scheme.
Ireland's arts basic income proves successful, becoming permanent.
Artists cite financial precarity as reason for funding reform.

Scotland is contemplating a 'basic income for the arts' scheme, drawing inspiration from Ireland's successful direct payment model. Many freelance creatives in Scotland, like artist Kirsty McArthur, struggle with burnout due to low pay and precarious work.

The Irish 'Basic Income for the Arts' pilot, launched in 2022, provided €1,300 monthly to 2,000 selected artists. This initiative has been praised for allowing artists more time for creative pursuits and less on non-artistic jobs.

As of October 2025, the Irish scheme has been made permanent, with a new iteration set to begin in late 2026. Initial assessments suggest the scheme contributes positively to the wider economy.

Leading figures in Scotland's arts and music scenes are urging the government to adopt a similar approach. They warn of a cultural 'desert' if current trends continue, emphasizing the potential loss of new voices and creativity.

Scottish Culture Secretary Angus Robertson has indicated that the government is actively 'looking into' the concept. While acknowledging challenges in integrating such a scheme with the existing tax and welfare systems, he expressed enthusiasm for exploring its potential, especially given its success in Ireland.

Further decisions on Scottish culture policy may be influenced by an upcoming election. Ireland's different public finance situation, including a budget surplus, also presents a contrast to Scotland's fiscal landscape.

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