Gert Raudsep: the cultural sector must shed its freeloader image

Gert Raudsep, head of the Theatre Union and actor, argues that Estonia's cultural sector has for too long borne the stigma of being perceived as living off others. The 56-year-old artist calls for an end to the notion that culture survives at society's expense.

Gert Raudsep, head of the Theatre Union and actor, has publicly stated that Estonia's cultural sector suffers from a damaging image — many believe culture thrives as if at others' cost, sustained by society's goodwill and public sector handouts.

According to Raudsep, this attitude has persisted too long and it is time to move beyond it. The 56-year-old actor and cultural leader emphasizes that culture is not a social burden, but a fully-fledged part of the economy and people's everyday lives, creating both jobs and spiritual value.

The cultural sector in Estonia has for years been caught in tense budget debates. Critics have repeatedly noted that cultural institution budgets do not grow in line with needs, and artists are forced to operate under uncertain conditions. Raudsep believes this situation cannot continue if the aim is to maintain a vibrant and diverse cultural landscape.

As head of the Theatre Union, Raudsep sees his role as also protecting the rights and dignity of cultural workers. In his view, both politicians and society at large must recognize that the cultural sector requires not only moral acknowledgment, but also concrete and stable support — both financially and legislatively.