What's Happening?
The Working Arts Club (WAC), an organization based in London, is expanding its reach to northern England, with a new chapter set to launch in Manchester on March 24. The club, which supports individuals from lower socio-economic backgrounds in the UK
art scene, aims to address systemic class issues within the art world. Since its inception in mid-2024, WAC has attracted nearly 1,200 art professionals. The club organizes events such as social gatherings, gallery tours, and panel discussions to connect and empower its members. The expansion to northern England is seen as a natural progression, given the widespread need for such a network. Kirsty Jukes, a communications officer at the Manchester Art Gallery, will lead the development of WAC in the region. Jukes, who has firsthand experience of the challenges faced by working-class individuals in the art world, emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and support for those without financial privilege.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of WAC to northern England is significant as it addresses the systemic class-based discrimination prevalent in the art world. A recent report highlighted that over half of respondents in Greater Manchester experienced such discrimination, with many finding it difficult to break into museum and gallery work without financial flexibility. By expanding its reach, WAC aims to provide a supportive network for working-class art professionals, helping them overcome barriers related to class and accent bias. This initiative could lead to a more inclusive and diverse art community, where individuals from all backgrounds have equal opportunities to succeed. The expansion also highlights the importance of regional support networks in addressing class issues that are not confined to geographic locations.
What's Next?
Following the Manchester launch, WAC plans to hold a meet-up in Liverpool in April and expand its programming across the region's seven counties. The organization also intends to develop more online events to connect members regardless of their location. This expansion strategy aims to create a robust support network for working-class art professionals across northern England, fostering a sense of community and shared experiences. As WAC grows, it may influence other regions to adopt similar initiatives, potentially leading to broader systemic changes in the art world.
