Episode 1 – Evolving Public Arts Funding: Balancing Equity, Trust, and Sustainability

In this episode of the Mass Culture Podcast, Robin Sokoloski speaks with Michelle Chawla, Director and CEO of the Canada Council for the Arts, about the current state of public arts funding in Canada. Their discussion explores how funding models are shifting to better support equity in the arts, strengthen cultural sustainability, and build trust between funders, artists, and arts organizations. Together, they reflect on the evolving role of public funders, the balance between project and core funding, and how cultural policy can foster a more inclusive and resilient arts ecosystem.