Nearly Half of Mid-Career Women Consider Leaving Art World: Report
A recent study conducted by Artnet in collaboration with the Association of Women in the Arts (AWITA) indicates that almost 50% of mid-career women in the art sector are contemplating leaving within the next five years. Among over 2,000 respondents, 50.6% of women aged 35-44 are at the highest risk of departure, coinciding with a critical phase for stepping into leadership positions. Structural challenges peak during mid-career, with 76% of women aged 35-54 citing barriers related to gender, race, or class. Additionally, 48% of full-time employees report spending at least half of their time on administrative duties, contributing to burnout. The report, "Hardwiring Change: Buying Back Time," is the second annual partnership between Artnet and AWITA, aiming to offer data-driven strategies for sustainable careers in the arts.
Key facts
- Nearly half of women aged 25-44 surveyed are considering leaving the arts within five years.
- The highest rate (50.6%) is among women aged 35-44.
- 76% of women aged 35-54 report structural barriers linked to gender, race, or class.
- 48% of full-time workers spend at least half their time on administrative tasks.
- Nearly two-thirds of respondents use AI tools daily.
- 67.3% of respondents have received no instruction on AI use.
- 55% said fair pay and job security would most improve career sustainability.
- The report is a collaboration between Artnet and the Association of Women in the Arts (AWITA).
Entities
Artists
- Sigrid Kirk
- Touria El Glaoui
Institutions
- Artnet
- Association of Women in the Arts (AWITA)
- AWITA Association of Women in the Arts
- Artribune
- 1-54
Locations
- Regno Unito
- Stati Uniti
- Europa
- Svizzera
- Francia
- Italia
- Medio Oriente
- Asia
- Africa
Sources
- Artribune —
- Artnet News —