In 2024, uniting the arts and hospitality industries has become a top priority for ArtsPay. Founded on the belief that the arts enrich our lives and communities, ArtsPay aims to create meaningful connections between artists and hospitality professionals. This collaboration not only enhances the cultural landscape but also fosters mutual support, enabling both industries to thrive together. In partnership with The Brunswick Green, we spoke with Co-Founder Marritt about the decision to integrate ArtsPay into their establishment.
Why did you choose to support ArtsPay?
I was approached by Paris, who was heavily involved in the "Save Our Scene" campaign, about live music in Melbourne. Supporting live music has always been important to us; it is undervalued by patrons and businesses alike, despite everyone benefiting from it. Many of my friends are amazing musicians who cannot survive on what they are paid for their years of dedication. The COVID lockdowns were particularly hard. So when I was approached to join the initiative, I jumped at the opportunity.
How was the integration process?
The team at ArtsPay, particularly Marc, was wonderfully responsive. We had a few hiccups at first due to our unique way of operating, but everything was resolved quickly. It’s been very smooth ever since.
What has been the response from customers and staff regarding ArtsPay?
With rising costs of living, we’ve found that reassuring our customers that our EFTPOS surcharges are not going to the pockets of the banks for profit, but rather to a non-profit organisation that supports the arts, has been very well received! People always feel good about it; it’s a very easy, passive way of supporting a cause. It also makes people feel more a part of a community.
Do you see a relationship between the arts community and the hospitality industry, and how do they help each other thrive?
It makes sense to us to support the arts that help our business thrive. ArtsPay is a way of closing the circle so the arts are supported by the businesses that benefit from them. Kind of like a permaculture system, it’s self-supporting. It’s not reliant on government or council budget changes. It’s simple, and the more businesses that come on board, the more grants become available.
As ArtsPay continues to bridge the gap between the arts and hospitality sectors, the partnership with The Brunswick Green stands as a testament to the power of collaboration. By fostering a community where artists and businesses uplift one another, we create a vibrant cultural ecosystem that enriches lives and enhances our local landscape. And with the support of more businesses and patrons, we can look forward to a future where the arts flourish alongside hospitality, benefiting us all.
Words by Sebastian Pasinetti.