Funding arts

Press, 3 December 1982, Page 12

Funding arts

Sir, — In my opinion funding the arts in New Zealand is an outrageous waste of taxpayers’ money. An examination of whether the grants being made by the Queen Elizaabeth II Arts Council are justified is long overdue. For too long now we have heard pathetic whimpers from those on the council and others concerned that their so-called “art” is part of our heritage. These people are now claiming that the art scene is about to collapse. If art is so interesting and important then large numbers of people would flock to support it by attending performances. etc. There would thenbe no need to bludge off the Government for money. To some it may seem a pity to see theatres closing down and performers out of work but it must be remembered that these groups were formed in the misbelief that they were wanted. It would seem therefore, that like many other things, the arts have been living by the false security of a Government subsidy and that this subsidy should be cut forthwith. Yours, etc., D. J. JARMAN. West Melton November 30, 1982.