International working

The arts are a universal language and their power and potential to promote a positive image of Scotland is enormous. As well as attracting international appreciation of the rich cultural life and tradition in contemporary Scotland, international artistic exchanges can lead to benefits such as increased tourism and investment, and inward migration of talented creative people.

Our artists enjoy an international reputation for innovation and excellence.

They are ‘cultural ambassadors’: nine out of ten Scots believe our artists and performers give the world a good impression of Scotland. Whether it is in the performing or creative arts, Scotland’s artists are in demand worldwide.

We are the lead national body for the arts in Scotland and work in partnership with bodies such as the British Council, Visiting Arts and the Scottish Government to promote our arts internationally and to ensure that Scottish audiences have opportunities to experience excellent work from different cultures. We foster international opportunities for Scottish artists and arts organisations to travel, to research new work, to perform and exhibit abroad, and to cultivate artistic exchange.