Being a Muslim and learning about how Islam is the 2nd largest faith group in the UK has had me pondering for the last five years. Where are all these people when I am out and about enjoying what the arts has to offer.
1.6 million people what is their contribution to this sector? Why is this important? Well, I'm thinking first of all how we are all strapped for cash in the arts and here is a market that has money. The main high street banks know something as more and more of them are offering Islamic finance -why would they bother if there wasn’t something in it for them. Working in the Muslim community there has been an increase of activity with events, festivals, artists emerging. However, it’s still not connected with the main arts infrastructure. I can’t help but wonder if we are missing out on something. I believe in one arts sector, that is rich and diverse and everyone in Britain feels they have a contribution to make. But I don’t think this is the case in reality - what are the necessary shifts the sector needs to make to benefit from this engagement? What are the consequences for not engaging? Just some thoughts I wanted to share.
Post new comment