The artist status has been obtained by 50 people by mid-August according to the ministry

Prague – The Ministry of Culture issued certificates to 50 artists who applied for registration in the new registry, launched on July 1st, by mid-August. The ministry has received 118 applications so far, which require a fee of one thousand crowns. This information was published today on the ministry's website. The so-called artist status with financial state support is intended to help creators working outside of employment relationships, but employed individuals can also apply.

Performing artists, authors, technical professions, and other creators in the cultural sector can register. "Most applications are accepted. If necessary, we ask the applicants for additional information; we strive to be as accommodating as possible," said Zuzana Zahradníčková, the director of the ministry's department of arts, libraries, and creative industries.

The law requires that applicants have been engaged in artistic activities for at least 24 months in the last three years, which must be substantiated by contractual relationships. If something does not match, the ministry under Martin Baxa (ODS) will ask the applicant for clarification. However, in July, several applications were also rejected by ministry officials.

"The registry serves to document individuals who are currently active in their artistic and creative professions; it is not a confirmation of artistic quality or an award for lifetime achievement," clarified Zahradníčková.

The ministry expects to announce a scholarship program for registered artists during September. The first call will be interdisciplinary, with priority given to projects lasting up to one year. It will be possible to apply for a creative scholarship for the creation of an artistic work or for a study scholarship to gain experience and materials.

According to the explanatory report approved by the government amendment to the law, support is expected to cover a maximum of 1400 people, which would cost the state approximately 126 million crowns annually. The registry serves as a source of data for the ministry about the situation and as the first in a series of planned improvements in conditions for artists.

Applications for registration in the registry can be submitted through a data box, by mail, or via a form on the ministry's website.