The Irish Do It Best

"The Irish government will give 2,000 artists unrestricted weekly stipends in a program officials described as a "recognition, at government level, of the important role of the arts in Irish society." After a successful three-year pilot, the Irish government made its basic income program for artists permanent. Similar pilots have been launched here in the United States, but they're supported primarily by the nonprofit sector."

"Bronx-based artist Shellyne Rodriguez has endured targeted attacks by right-wing groups and tabloids like the New York Post since 2023. This has led to threats to her personal safety and her dismissal from teaching jobs at two New York art schools. Now, her detractors are displeased with her public installation "Phoenix Ladder" in her home borough."

Ireland has established a permanent basic income program for artists following a successful three-year pilot phase, providing 2,000 artists with unrestricted weekly stipends. The Irish government views this as official recognition of the arts' vital role in society. While similar pilot programs exist in the United States, they are primarily supported by nonprofit organizations rather than government funding. The article suggests American policymakers should consider Ireland's approach as a model. Additionally, a Bronx-based artist named Shellyne Rodriguez has faced targeted attacks from right-wing groups and media outlets since 2023, resulting in threats and job dismissals, though she continues defending her public installation work.

Read at Hyperallergic