The Art sector of Barcelona : frictions, concerns and possibilities for change

Abstract

This research identifies and evaluates the current situation of the art professional and describes guidelines to asses the sectors difficulties. The project uses a participative action research (PAR) and participant observation to have a close contact with the informants. The research also facilitates tools to the participants of the research to find solutions of their own current problems. We work with a specific community of the artistic sector of Barcelona who is discontent with their current situation and believes that it should change. The groups uneasiness is related to the overall economical crisis in Spain, the misunderstanding by the civil society of their practices, un-just cultural policies, the conditions of flexible workers and the historical precariousness of art professionals. The arts sectors problems are directly related to other larger issues such as climate change, migrant conditions and social inequality and they offer creative and critical ideas to address them. The art context can be an important catalyzer for large structural social and economical changes. Mapping-out it's debates and necessities offers tools not only for the artistic community yet also for public representatives or private organizations to make adequate decisions to encourage more sustainable outcomes. Attending the sectors struggles can have an important impact on cities and society as a whole.