Arts and Culture sector sees significant growth in Cumbria

Cumbria has a rich history of high art and fine art, and according to new research, the art and culture sector is growing in importance and value across the north west.

The study, carried out by the Centre for Economics and Business Research on behalf of the Arts Council, found that the arts and culture sector in the north west is the third largest in England.

In 2016, the arts and culture sector created £1.6bn in turnover across the region: an increase of 48% in just 5 years. The industry now employs 8,250 people across the region, which is an 81% increase since 2011.

Pete Massey, Arts Council England’s director for northern economy and partnerships said: “Cumbria’s contribution to building a healthy and flourishing arts and culture sector in the north west is significant."

“It’s refreshing to see that Cumbria not only has a rich artistic and cultural heritage with some of Britain’s most famous artists and writers being inspired by the region’s dramatic landscapes, but there is also a new breed of artists and creatives following in the footsteps of Ruskin, Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter and making Cumbria their home.