In 2022, the Minister for Arts, Catherine Martin, unveiled a trial Basic Income for Artists (BIA) scheme. She confirmed that the scheme’s outcomes would be evaluated against a comparison group of artists not receiving the income. The first year’s results, through October 2023, were disclosed yesterday.
The data reveals a beneficial impact from BIA that has enhanced artists’ capacities to dedicate time to their craft. Participants in the scheme were able to commit almost an extra full working day each week to their creative endeavours. Furthermore, nearly 40% of the monthly income was invested back into their practice, resulting in an additional €550 investment in resources, promotion, workspace, and travel costs.
Those on the BIA scheme were less likely to be hindered from working in the arts or to report inadequate remuneration as a hindrance. They were also less reliant on non-artistic jobs for income, leading to greater independence. As expected, the artists demonstrated decreased material deprivation and experienced a dramatic enhancement in overall life satisfaction.
While not every influence is quantifiable, the artistic output appears to have improved. Subsequent generations will determine the worth of the artwork, but the report points to an undoubted growth in the quantity of work completed by income recipients.
Heralded as a trailblazing initiative, the pilot project has generated an international spotlight. Accompanied by an increase in State backing for the cultural industry since 2020, including nearly double the allocation to the Arts Council and augmented funding in other spheres. However, it is prudent to be careful when equating enhanced funding with artistic brilliance. Despite this, the recent global praise for Irish artists in various creative outlets cannot be overlooked. Witnessing tangible State support matching the artistic achievements represents a refreshing change after years of nominal recognition and minimal investment.