Another Arts Council Funding Cut!
I was massively disappointed to receive an email yesterday about Art Council plans to stop funding the West Midlands arts magazine Raw Edge. Basically, if this goes ahead it's likely to mean an end to the magazine.
Although the magazine is free from local libraries, I actually chose to subscribe to it around four years ago, to make sure I didn't miss a copy. It has always contained quality poems, short stories, articles and artwork, not to mention invaluable information about local writing events and groups. It just seems so stupid (I'm trying to be restrained and avoid swear words!) to cut the funding to this when our government seems quite happy to waste vast amounts of money elsewhere.
Anyway, I thought I'd vent some steam about it. Apparently, the magazine has until 15th January to appeal and unofficial support is also welcome. Raw Edge have set up a website at www.rawedgemagazine.co.uk .
If you live in the West Midlands and have any thoughts about it, responses should be addressed to Adrian Johnson, Literature Officer, 82 Granville Street , Birmingham B1 2LH or email adrian.johnson@artscouncil.org.uk.
Comments, Pingbacks:
· http://www.earlyworkspress.co.uk 
Permalink
09/01/08 @ 20:40 · http://www.milltech-systems.co.uk I can't believe how many literary organisations/magazines are being hit by funding cuts. Still, we've got the olympics so who cares (not!)!
Permalink
09/01/08 @ 21:45 · http://www.writelink.co.uk/blogs/marilyn Sorry to hear this and hope there's enough support to make them think again
Permalink
10/01/08 @ 19:13 · http://www.milltech-systems.co.uk Fingers crossed. The editor, Dave Reeves, says he has been heartened by the messages of support etc he's received and that have been sent to the arts council, so let's hope it helps change the council's mind.
Permalink
10/01/08 @ 20:07 · http://www.earlyworkspress.co.uk Permalink
12/01/08 @ 19:33 · http://www.milltech-systems.co.uk Permalink
12/01/08 @ 20:24