Everybody agrees that culture is important for education, society and the rule of law. However, funding for culture is currently being massively cut. Large institutions such as the Kunsthaus Graz are not yet affected. The independent scene however is cut with immediate effect and massive consequences. This project is a collective protest that aims to raise awareness.

Free, critical art and culture is one of the most effective means of strengthening democratic discourse and an open, equal society.

(ausreißer)

The magazine ausreißer has been published for 20 years as a critical, non-commercial mural newspaper, folded edition and online version that operates at the interface between journalism, literature and art.

A wave of cuts in the public media, hate speech and misinformation on social networks. Hate, accusation and counter-accusation. Moderation can only be achieved through public and independent information. Culture wants that too. And that's what this project wants. Der ausreißer - Die Wandzeitung and the Interessengemeinschaft (IG) Kultur Steiermark have been providing information at a high level for years. Both with and in the service of creative artists and society in Austria in general. The project Wirbrauchen_kultur collects voices and publicises the effects of current massive cuts in the independent cultural scene.

Most people in Graz take culture for granted. Culture promotes community and is part of our identity. It is important for our education, democracy and the rule of law. For this reason, it is supported by the public sector (city, state and federal government). There are large institutions such as the Kunsthaus, the opera house, the theatre, etc. But there are also individual actors, smaller projects, associations and initiatives: the so-called independent scene. All of them are important for a lively, innovative, reflective and diverse society. Without a broad cultural landscape, life becomes poorer. Current global politics in particular show how important culture is.

In Graz, in Styria and also in the federal government, a lot of money is now being cut for culture. There is currently talk of cuts of up to 25% at city level, 40% at state level and 50% in the annual federal budget. The independent arts scene will be affected as early as 2025, which will directly and immediately jeopardise its existence. The larger institutions, such as the Kunsthaus and organisations with multi-year contracts, are not expected to be cut this year.