Policy Pathways for UK Outdoor Arts in a post-Brexit context

Policy Brief: The Future of Outdoor Arts in the UK
 

This policy brief, written by Verena Cornwall and produced by Circostrada in the frame of FRESH STREET #5 co-organised with Out There Arts in Great Yarmouth (UK) explores the evolving landscape of the Outdoor Arts sector in the UK amid economic, social, and ecological shifts. It highlights the artform’s vital role in fostering community engagement, transforming public spaces, and reaching underserved audiences—often through free, accessible performances.

Despite its strengths, the sector faces significant challenges:

• Loss of EU funding (e.g., Creative Europe, Interreg, Erasmus+) has reduced opportunities for international collaboration and co-creation.
• Post-Brexit touring restrictions have made cross-border work more complex and costly, limiting artistic mobility.
• Cuts to local authority funding have led to fewer festivals, reduced commissioning, and increased economic instability for artists—many of whom are freelancers or work in small ensembles.
• Shrinking festival budgets across Europe further limit opportunities for UK artists abroad.

To address these challenges, the brief outlines recommendations for improving funding access and easing mobility barriers, aiming to strengthen the sector’s sustainability and international reach.