The Arts Council of England (ACE) has released a new report, 'The Big Picture', setting out the argument for increased spending within the arts sector. The report indicates the need to build on existing investment, back talent and creativity and place more funding into arts education. Increased funding and lottery support within the sector has resulted in a larger public appetite for the arts, with increased activity and access, raising audience expectations and creating new opportunities for artists. The recent report has been issued in recognition of the key role that the arts play within local culture, and highlights the importance of creating more productive arts infrastructure. Backing talent and creativity is also a key concern of the report, detailing the need to provide support to artists throughout their development. Recognising that arts education can make a significant impact on various learning skills, the 'Creative Partnership' program is also outlined in the report. Developed in collaboration with the government, the program has been designed to offer children the opportunity to develop their creative potential and to equip them with skills to work in the creative industries. A full copy of the report is available at: http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/publications/pdfs/biggerpicture.pdf

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