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.
In its budget report, Birmingham City Council has proposed savings for 2024 to 2026 —as it looks to “cease funding for cultural projects”—with the aim of saving £487,000 by 2026. Funding will be maintained for Black History Month and Birmingham Heritage Week in 2024-25 but these initiatives will face a 100% cut from 2025-26.
The art historian Ruth Millington posted on X (formerly Twitter): “At the heart of any great city is its culture. Terrible news from Birmingham City Council with huge budget cuts incoming [at Ikon Gallery and Birmingham Royal Ballet] and many more. Protecting and promoting a creative economy is key for our city’s recovery.”
The Labour-run authority has revealed details of the spending squeeze after effectively declaring itself bankrupt last year following a £760m equal pay claim liability and a huge overspend on an IT system.
The budget proposals will go to cabinet on 27 February with a recommendation for approval and will then be voted on by all members at a full council meeting on 5 March.
