Kristiina Alliksaar left the Ministry of Culture a month ago. She now works as the academic director at the Viljandi Culture Academy. She says the cultural sector needs more funding, but sufficient additional funds are not coming.
Alliksaar states that the government must set clear priorities. She supports the idea that with limited funds, those who need it most should be helped. Other cultural projects can seek funding from audiences and private enterprises.
Kristiina believes that theater is not in the most dire situation. Visual arts receive the least support. Visual arts have little state support and few opportunities. Theaters receive more funding because they employ many people.
Alliksaar says the state does not need to keep all artists on payroll. She thinks a balance should be found. The state should support those who do good work.
Kristiina Alliksaar also talks about the decision-making process in the Ministry of Culture. Each field submits its proposals. These go to the chancellor and the minister. The state decides whether additional funding is available or cuts must be made.
Alliksaar says funding culture is always difficult. The state must make choices. She believes more support should be given to fewer and provide them with more funding.
Kristiina emphasizes that culture is of great importance. Without culture, we cannot exist. Culture is like light. Without it, darkness comes. The state must make clear choices about what to support and what not.
Alliksaar says the cultural sector will not die out. We must find a base to support. The audience must value cultural activities. The state must make choices about what to support. The most important thing is the audience.
Kristiina Alliksaar is convinced that culture is important. We can never have too much culture. We must find the best way to support culture.