Arts Community Pulse Survey

The Canada Council for the Arts and Context Research Group (CRG) conducted a research project to better understand the challenges and needs of the arts sector.

Research goal

The survey aimed to provide an accurate and up-to-date picture of the current state of the sector nationally, and to draw an evidence-based portrait that can be used by all of us to ensure sustainable support for the arts in Canada.

Methods

The survey was completed by 7,255 artists, arts groups and organizations from all disciplines and all provinces and territories.

Outcomes

The findings from the survey signal that the arts sector is still grappling with major challenges, including financial, operational, workforce and mental health issues, endemic to individuals, groups and organizations alike. Survey respondents emphasized how crucial public funding has been instrumental to address these challenges. However, additional funding is needed for sectoral transformation.

Key findings from the research include:

• All respondents agreed that additional public funding is critical for the arts sector to transform and adapt to be more sustainable, particularly to address these areas: diversification of revenue streams, market and network development, public/audience engagement, accessibility and donor development.
• The majority of respondents indicated that public funding has helped them, their group, or their organization in the past two years, highlighting the importance of public funding in supporting the arts sector.
• The majority of respondents indicated that public funding had helped them raise visibility for an artistic practice or artistic community within Canada or abroad, contribute to the well-being of a community, and contribute to the local economy.
• The majority of respondents indicated that their financial security has been unstable in the past two years and noted decreases to their total income or revenue and increases to their total expenses in the past year.
• Most respondents reported they have experienced challenges related to mental health and well-being in the past two years.
• The majority of organizations reported that it has been challenging to recruit and retain staff in the past two years.

The findings from this research will inform the Canada Council’s support to the arts sector so that the sector can keep making its vital contributions in the longer term. Read more in the Canada Council’s Director and CEO, Michelle Chawla’s letter to the community from October 2024.

Interactive dashboard

Explore results and key data points from the Arts Community Pulse Survey, including detailed findings by region, field of practice, respondent type and funding received, with the interactive dashboard below.

Questions?

Please contact the Research, Measurement and Data Analytics Section at research@canadacouncil.ca.