Community arts officer
As the arts grow increasingly important as a regeneration tool, local authorities have become major employers of community arts officers. Many councils employ a community arts officer or even small teams dedicated to this role.
Community arts officers are not necessarily creative artists themselves. They will liaise with and support artists who lead community arts groups; get involved in strategy and decision making; source funding opportunities; and signpost others to information.
Did you know?
Culture has played an important part in the regeneration of cities such as Glasgow, Liverpool, Manchester and Newcastle upon Tyne. Liverpool’s year as European Capital of Culture in 2008 generated an £800m boost to the regional economy.
Facts and Figures
- Starting salary:
Salaries can start at £16,000.
- Senior level salary:
More experienced officers can earn from £20,000 to over £25,000.
- Education:
A degree in an art or arts-related subject has become the norm in recent years. In addition some higher education institutes offer specific courses in arts administration, although these are not essential to find work. Practical relevant experience is more important. Volunteering will help you gain experience, as well as useful contacts.
- Skills:
Good communication skills are crucial. Arts officers work on the front line, often in communities characterised by poverty and deprivation. An ability to relate to people and empathise with a varied set of problems and issues is essential. Good organisational skills are also important. Many arts officers are charged with organising large scale cultural events such as carnivals, which involve important negotiations with local services like the police and fire service. You will also need fundraising ability, and budgeting skills.
- Likely employer type:
Local authorities, Arts Council England, Voluntary Arts Wales, voluntary organisations and primary care trusts.
- Opportunities:
More than 80 of the 410 local authorities in England and Wales employ community development artists, though the number of employing councils in England has fallen in recent years. There is anecdotal evidence of increased demand from voluntary organisations and other publicly funded bodies.
Meet a community arts officer
Helpful links
- Arts Council EnglandExplains the role the arts play in the community
- Arts Marketing AssociationProfessional development body for arts professionals
- Creative and Cultural SkillsInformation about the creative and cultural industries, skills and training
- National Association of Local Government Arts OfficersInformation on local authority employment of arts officers
- Voluntary Arts NetworkExtensive information on art projects throughout the UK
