What is it that makes London so appealing? Is it the iconic landmarks, the vibrant nightlife, or the thriving industries in finance, fashion, and art? Perhaps. But beneath the glitz and glamour, there is a network of artists who give London its unique charm and constantly push the boundaries of creativity, all while struggling to make ends meet.
A recent survey conducted by Acme, the largest provider of affordable studios in England, sheds light on the precarious situation many visual artists in London find themselves in. Nearly a third of those surveyed expressed concerns that they may have to give up their artistic careers within the next five years due to lack of funds. Additionally, almost half admitted that they are unable to save money or contribute to a pension plan.
This research comes just as City Hall is launching an initiative to address the issue. “A lot of the things we value in London, and in other culturally vibrant cities, are not adequately protected,” says Justine Simons, London’s deputy mayor for culture and creative industries. “Artists are the foundation of it all; they are the engine that drives creativity. We need them in our city, and yet many can’t afford the space to work.”
The survey by Acme reveals that many artists are on the brink of giving up their studios due to rising rents, the cost of living crisis, and the uncertainties surrounding Brexit. Some artists are even sacrificing basic necessities like heating and food in order to continue creating their art. Shockingly, only 12% of those surveyed said they can sustain themselves solely through their art.
“It feels like a hostile environment now,” says Gayle Chong Kwan, an artist based in east London. “I don’t want my profession to become obsolete, with only those supported by family wealth able to have a studio. I’m in a relatively stable position, but earlier this year, while teaching in Edinburgh, I saw that being an artist comes at a high cost there too.”
Chong Kwan, a successful artist who recently collaborated with the V&A museum, believes that the creative contributions of artists are undervalued. She explains, “Being an artist is one of the most uncertain jobs you can have. It’s not about the money; it’s about emotional, sociological, and political communication. The ability to have a studio for longer than a year is crucial. People may say artists can work in sheds or bathrooms, and while that may be feasible for some, there is immense value in being a part of a city’s creative ecosystem and contributing to its artistic landscape.”
Acme, which has supported over 8,500 creatives in London over the past five decades, boasts an impressive roster of artists, including Grayson Perry, Maureen Paley, and Hew Locke. Lea O’Loughlin, co-director of Acme, explains that the charity is focused on assisting those in impoverished circumstances and provides support throughout an artist’s entire career, not just during their early years. She adds, “We are constantly amazed by the level of dedication artists have to their studios, despite facing significant challenges. The insecurity they experience is ongoing, and while digital art has risen in popularity, many still rely on traditional mediums like paint and require a physical studio space. In fact, 80% of those surveyed consider it either very important or essential.”
Eline Van der Vlist, from Space, another studio provider in London, shares a similar sentiment. “London needs its artists,” she says emphatically. “They are often underpaid and need stability. Even those in affordable studios are feeling the squeeze. They are the outliers who may spend thirty years on the fringes before gaining recognition for their work.”
Simons plans to extend City Hall’s Creative Enterprise Zones in an effort to support struggling artists. The existing nine zones have shown signs of recovery after the economic downturn. “Culture is at the core of what makes London special,” she asserts. “Four out of five people visit our city because of its cultural offerings, and it is a significant driver of wealth.” However, it remains uncertain whether extending these zones and implementing measures to preserve cultural spaces will be enough to help artists facing financial difficulties. Many artists have already been forced to leave the city due to the high cost of living and the additional expenses of maintaining a studio.
Emily Laing, an artist who supports her painting with proofreading work, highlights the problem faced by many artists. “Few can afford to live in London, let alone pay over £500 a month for a small studio,” she explains. Additionally, there is a growing resentment towards “untalented artists” who are able to secure precious studio space simply because they come from wealthy backgrounds.
Simons acknowledges another concern among London’s artists. “Many of them are rightfully frustrated by the fact that they contribute to the vibrancy of an area, only to be eventually displaced,” she says. Hackney Wick in east London is often cited as an example of this trend.
In order to preserve the artistic fabric of London, it is crucial to find sustainable solutions that provide stability and support for artists. Their creative contributions are invaluable, and without them, the city would lose an essential part of its identity. By prioritizing affordable studio spaces and recognizing the true value of artists’ work, London can continue to thrive as a cultural powerhouse.
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