"Cultural Trends has, over the years, become an established source of detailed statistics covering specific aspects of cultural activity, and the arts in particular. It has provided a useful reference for all those interested in the management and development of cultural resources in this country." Mark Fisher, MP

Cultural Trends has been providing in-depth analysis of cultural sector statistics since 1989. It focuses on key trends within the fields of material culture, media, performing arts and the historic environment, and it includes coverage of issues which impact on the sector as a whole, such as the internet, poverty and access to the arts, and funding.

Cultural Trends is based on the assumption that cultural policy should be based on empirical evidence and it champions the need for better statistical information on the cultural sector. It aims to:

• stimulate analysis and understanding of the arts and wider cultural sector based on relevant and reliable statistical data;
• provide a critique of the empirical evidence upon which arts and wider cultural policy may be formed, implemented, evaluated and developed;
• examine the soundness of measures of the performance of government and public sector bodies in the arts and wider cultural sector; and
• encourage improvements in the coverage, timeliness and accessibility of statistical information on the arts and wider cultural sector.

Cultural Trends has the same rigorous writing process as any academic journal. All papers have undergone editorial screening and peer review. Many are appended by expert commentaries, which further explore and analyse the subjects covered.

The journal is widely read and referred to by arts funders, sponsors and administrative bodies; by local and central government officials; by broadcasting and arts organisations; by researchers, consultants and academics; and by those concerned with the promotion and development of the arts and creative industries.

Cultural Trends is not associated with any political party, pressure group.