April 2026 | BBK Bundesverband and IGBK

A summary of the key findings and identified needs for action is available in English language. 

The art of making a living: On the economic and social situation of visual artists (PDF) 

Since 1994, the Bundesverband Bildender Künstlerinnen und Künstler (BBK Bundesverband, Federal Association of Visual Artists) has regularly conducted a survey on the economic and social situation of visual artists in Germany. Funded by the German Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media, the 2025 study, entitled "Von der Kunst zu leben. Zur wirtschaftlichen und sozialen Situation Bildender Künstler:innen" (pdf in German), was commissioned in collaboration with the Stiftung Kunstfonds and carried out by Prognos AG.

In addition, the BBK has published the accompanying booklet "Impulse und Wege von der Kunst zu leben" (pdf in German). It sets out how the cultural policy framework can be improved in the long term and which measures are suitable for strengthening the economic, social and professional situation of those involved over the long term. Aimed at policy-makers, administrative bodies and decision-makers in the arts and culture sector, it invites dialogue on potential reforms.

The summary and translation were produced in collaboration of the Bundesverband Bildender Künstlerinnen und Künstler (BBK) and the Internationale Gesellschaft der Bildenden Künste (IGBK).

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