The UK creative industry is collectively worth £87 billion, placing it as one of the world’s leading creative industries. . The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) published statistics on the industry stating that it now accounts for 1.9 million jobs. The creative economy grew by 3.2% between 2014 and 2015 which in total, increased by 19.5% since 2011.
According to the statistics, visual arts has become one of the fastest growing sectors within the industry. Visual arts has grown a massive 34.7% between 2011 and 2015. The growth of the whole industry is set to rise too, with Nesta predicting another 1 million jobs to be created by 2030. The Creative Industries Council has developed a strategy, highlighting 5 key areas for development to reach the growth goals.
Creative Industry Council Unveil Growth Strategy
The industry members of the UK’s Creative Industries Council have identified five key areas for development over the next three years. The key areas will include Education, Finance, Infrastructure, Intellectual property and International exports and inward investment.
Nicola Mendelsohn, Co-Chair of the Creative Industries Council, said: “Together we need to continue this momentum to ensure we are inspiring and equipping the next generation of talent; helping creative businesses to start-up and grow; and maintaining the UK’s international competitiveness. Government should now make creative industries one of its official industrial strategies to build on this UK success story.”
Visual arts named as one of the fastest growing areas
British films, music, video games, crafts and publishing are taking a lead role in driving the UK’s economic recovery. According to the latest government statistics, these creative industries have lead the way in recovering from the 2008 crisis.
The industry growth has been substantial across all areas. However, the visual arts industry has seen one of the biggest growths reaching a massive 34.7% from 2011 to 2015.
The growth of the creative industries is set to rise over the next 13 years, with 1 million new jobs predicted to be created by 2013. Secretary Vince Cable has said: “We want this sector to continue to thrive so it’s important that government and industry keep working together to foster the right environment for creative industries to succeed and inspire young people to follow in the footsteps of the many creative heavyweights that Britain has produced.”
