Arts Council Updates Guidance Following Fears of Political Censorship

Arts Council England updated its guidance for arts organisations on Wednesday following fears that the public body would withdraw funding over artists’ political views. The new documents say the Arts Council expects organisations to “support freedom of expression,” promising not to remove funding “purely” over political works. The council recommended ways organisations can mitigate reputational risks, but it also warned against activities that may be perceived as affecting “those with protected characteristics or beliefs.” Earlier this month, the Arts Council faced backlash after publishing guidelines that appear to suggest an artist’s political statement made in his or her own capacity may jeopardise funding for an organisation the artist is involved with, although the council has denied that is the case....