A new survey conducted by Ipsos for Arts and Culture Norway shows that 57 percent of the population believe it is important that the state finances art and culture financially. When asked if they are satisfied with the level of public funding for art and culture, 67 percent say that they want to keep it or increase the level of it.
– This gives a different impression than what one can get through the public debate. Most people want a society rich in art and culture, which is publicly funded," says Kristin Danielsen, Director General of Arts and Culture Norway.
The majority are positive in all parts of society – across gender, age, education, place of residence or income – even though there are differences between the groups.
The proportion who are positive has nevertheless decreased by four percentage points since the last survey, from 61 percent in 2022. This is mainly due to fewer very positive, and more neutral, responses.
– Dyrtida has affected the audience numbers in cultural life for several years. The fact that this is also evident in the willingness to use community funds is not surprising," says Danielsen.
Cultural interest is great
The report also shows that people in central municipalities are most satisfied with the local cultural offerings. They also state that they are most interested in art and culture.
In general, young people under 40, women and people with higher education are more interested in art and culture.
"An interesting point is that people think they are more interested in culture than their neighbours. It may also be a result of the public discourse. Our figures show that cultural interest in Norway is in reality great," says Marcus Zackrisson, department director for cultural analysis at Arts and Culture Norway.
The population is divided in two on the question of cultural upbringing. One half, who say they grew up in a home with an emphasis on culture such as books and music, are most positive about public funding of art and culture. This group consists mainly of people under 50 years of age.
Cinemas, museums and libraries are used by most people
The report shows that libraries, museums and cinemas are the most used cultural offerings. Opera visits and classical concerts are less common. Young people under the age of 30 are the most active users of culture, especially at events related to folk music and dance.
Even though there are several cultural offerings many people do not use, the majority are still positive to the fact that the offerings should receive public funding. One thing stands out clearly: cultural offerings for children are the most popular purpose of public funding.
– We see that people use and appreciate a variety of art and cultural offerings in their everyday lives, and want it to be available throughout the country in the future as well," Danielsen concludes.
Facts about the survey
- Conducted by Ipsos on behalf of Arts and Culture Norway.
- Based on responses from 1000 participants in a supplementary survey and 3471 respondents in Norsk Monitor.
- Collected in the period September 2023 – December 2024.