“Why 9 in 10 Working-Class Parents Fear Arts Careers”
And Why We Must Change That

10 Sep 2024 by Helena Jarrold

A new statistic reveals that nine out of ten working-class parents are opposed to their children pursuing a career in the arts. This striking figure highlights a much deeper issue: the systemic barriers that make creative careers seem out of reach for working-class families.

For many parents, the arts represent a world of instability and limited opportunities. They fear their children will face low wages, precarious work, and a lack of career progression. Unfortunately, these concerns are not without merit. The arts industry, while vibrant, is notoriously difficult to break into, and for working-class kids, the hurdles are even higher. Without the financial safety nets or connections that wealthier peers may have, working-class artists often struggle to find the same level of success.

This fear stems from a system that prioritises privilege. From unpaid internships to expensive arts programmes, the deck is stacked against those without financial resources. Parents are simply trying to protect their children from a field that seems to offer little stability. However, the solution isn't to steer kids away from their passions—it’s to fix the system that makes pursuing the arts so difficult for those from lower-income backgrounds.

We need to advocate for more accessible arts education, fair wages, and greater opportunities that don’t rely on wealth or connections. By breaking down these barriers, we can show parents that creative careers can be just as viable as any other. It’s time to create a future where talent and creativity, not financial status, determine success in the arts.

Working-class kids shouldn’t have to choose between their passion and a secure future—they deserve the chance to have both.