Arts magazine The Skinny has been saved from closure following an intervention by arts charity Outer Spaces.
The charity has acquired publisher Radge Media three weeks after it said the September edition would be its last.
Rosamund West, editor-in-chief, said: “The Skinny has worked for nearly 21 years to shine a light on Scottish arts and culture, support emerging talent and connect people to the creative lives of their cities.
“The last month has been incredibly challenging, but the outpouring of support from contributors and collaborators reaffirmed the importance of a space for local, independent, cultural journalism.
“We’re excited to become part of the Outer Spaces family, and to have this opportunity to continue our work within an organisation whose values align so closely with our own. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone for their support and to Outer Spaces for creating this opportunity to secure our future.”
The free magazine was launched in October 2005 and covers music, film, theatre, art, comedy, and literature.
Shân Edwards, director of Outer Spaces, added: “We recognise the importance of strong, consistent and critical journalism as part of the arts ecosystem we operate within – which The Skinny has provided for the past 20 years – and we were pleased to be in the position to intervene with a solution to allow continued operations for The Skinny as well as Radge Media CIC’s other titles.”
Scottish Greens’ culture spokesperson, Dr Q Manivannan said: “This is really welcome news, and an important day for Scotland’s media and cultural landscape.
“The Skinny is a vital part of our independent media and has played a crucial role in championing and encouraging the artists, venues, events and creative communities that make Scotland’s culture what it is.
“But while we should celebrate its survival, we should also recognise the cost that has been paid.
“The Skinny is, ultimately, its people. The uncertainty surrounding its future has deeply affected its team, with some moving on, and that is a real loss for the magazine.
“The new team will have a big task in safeguarding the future of the publication, regaining momentum and continuing to do what it does best.
“Independent cultural journalism matters. It gives artists a platform, connects audiences with the culture around them, and helps our creative communities thrive. The Skinny’s near-closure is a symptom of the culture sector’s precarity.
“Scotland needs a thriving, independent cultural press, and we must do everything we can to ensure The Skinny has the chance not just to survive, but to flourish.”
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