Accountants for arts and culture
What separates us from the apes?
The Arts and Culture sector are an important collection of individuals and businesses, bringing a depth and richness to life. We need you and you need us. We have been designed to make sure we can help where other accountants fail.
Reasons why we're the best accountants for arts and culture
We know you're special
There are a range of special schemes and tax credits for Arts and Culture, we know them all and can tell you if any of them are for you.
Every project counts
We know each project needs to be maximised, be it for profit or for the portfolio. We can help you get the most out of them all.
Support on demand
Creative life can be hectic, unexpected things come up and need to be resolved ASAP. We are on hand to help you when you most need it.
Take the pressure off
We help our clients feel secure and free to focus on their projects. We are a safe pair of hands and supportive partner you can rely on.
The many faces of art and culture
Even as its own industry, this is a broad brush for the range of business we work with under this banner.
Even so, from artists to dealers, to galleries, performance artists, theatres, and everything in between, there are some common areas that crop up as pressure points.
Our experience has helped us find ways to reduce the pressures on you and make your business succeed. No matter if you’re one of the freelancers or one of the most creative small businesses, our accounting service is here for you.
Bookkeeping, cash flow, tax return, connection with HMRC – we’re here to help you make informed decisions. If you’re looking for accountants who can help save you time, you’re in the right place!
We understand the complexities of growing your business in the art industry.
Supporting the scene in the way only we can
Typically those who find themselves working within the arts and culture sectors aren’t necessarily armed with a strong background in business finance. As the jobs come in and the business start to grow, there is a risk that the finances and the financial management can get out of control.
Well, no need to worry! We are here to make things simple, manageable and get some set processes in place, so you can focus on the next big project.
Other accountants typically deal with people or small businesses the same way, but we’re experienced accountants for the creative industries, and have the level of expertise to deal with the financial planning that comes for artists.
From accounts to job costing to basic reporting tips and organisation, whatever you need, we are here to help. Get in touch with us, and we’ll streamline your financial needs for whatever suits you best!
“As a small grassroots creative start up and freelancer, I've been delighted and assured to work with such a personal, knowledgeable, professional and friendly accountant. It's made a big difference to our business!”
Quirks of the industry
There are some quirks to the tax and accounting rules for some of the businesses that fall under Arts and Culture.
We have experience with them all and can offer a service that fits your needs. For some, all that is needed is a guiding hand and support in areas they are unsure of.
Others want to focus on projects entirely and therefore hand over the accounting and finance side totally.
And then there are those who opt for a mix of both, we cover the basics and they get more involved as and when complications rise.
The aim is to give our clients the freedom to focus on delivering creative output whilst having the peace of mind that all the accounts and filings are taken care off.
When issues crop up they know they have a partner there supporting them and helping to make decisions that will grow and develop their business.
Film and Theatre tax credits
There are tax credits available for specific projects. We can help with the qualification, calculations, and applications. We use a digital accounting software to make things easier for all of us.
VAT schemes
For art dealers and those making regular purchases via auction there are specific VAT rules. We can make sure you are using the correct scheme and process the returns.
We always keep up with the latest news about tax laws and regulations, so you don’t need to worry about it!
Arts Council and BFI Film funding
There are various places to look for funding for your next project. We can help you put together the applications and secure that much needed cash to reach your goal of financial health.
Frequently Asked Questions about accounting for arts & culture
Yes. WallsMan Creative works exclusively with creative industries, including artists, galleries, arts organisations, and cultural institutions. With over 10 years of experience, we understand how creative income, funding, and commissions work in the arts sector.
Of course! We regularly advise artists and arts organisations on grants, public funding, and cultural support schemes, ensuring they are reported correctly and tax-efficiently.
Yes. We specialise in managing irregular income from commissions, exhibitions, teaching, licensing, and saless... all common challenges for artists and cultural professionals.
We help you claim eligible expenses such as studio rent, materials, tools, travel, marketing, exhibition costs, and professional fees, based on real experience in the arts sector.
We provide clear guidance on VAT registration, exemptions, reduced rates, and mixed VAT activities often seen in arts and cultural work.
All of them! We work with galleries, collectives, charities, and non-profit cultural organisations, supporting them with compliant accounting, reporting, and financial planning.
Yes. We regularly help artists move from hobbyist to professional status (sole trader, startup, small business, sole trader to limited company etc), setting up the right structure and ensuring compliance as income grows.
Because we exclusively serve creative industries. Our 10+ years of experience, deep understanding of the arts sector, and practical, supportive approach mean advice that truly fits creative and cultural work.
Related services
We offer a full range of services from the very basic to in depth business consultancy on specialist projects.
We usually create a package based on each businesses specific needs, size and budget. Tell us whats happening in your world and we will offer solutions.