Would they recognise artistic merit if it sat up and ordered another pint?

The Executive's press release (here) on culture makes depressing reading, and not just because it is written in a language somewhat remote from normal English:

"In her response to the report by the Cultural Commission, which recommended ways to develop the nation's arts and culture, Ms Ferguson said: "We are ambitious for Scotland's cultural life, which is why we plan to invest significant resources to realise our aspirations.
"We shall channel this new investment into bolstering the capacity of cultural organisations throughout Scotland to develop and present the best creative and cultural talent.
"Today our commitment has been stated, our ambition to achieve excellence has been declared, and the First Minister's St Andrews Day vision of access and excellence is now becoming a reality."

Not so ambitious - additional resources amount to £20 million rather than the £100 million recommended. And stating a commitment (especially a half-hearted one) and declaring a (modest) ambition does not convert a vision (even a McConnell vision) into a reality.

"The First Minister proposed a fresh policy of 'cultural rights' for every citizen to access high quality provision. We will take forward plans on rights and entitlements.
"Under new legislation local authorities will develop plans to ensure every person in Scotland is entitled to access cultural activity, reflecting the needs and wishes of local people and ommunities.
"The kinds of opportunities provided through entitlements may include - access to information about the local area's cultural heritage, free access to live performances, or the chance to take part in a community art project."

Big deal, no? I will have a "cultural right" to have a chance to take part in a community art project. Haud me back!

"In future, the Executive will fund the national companies direct. That is consistent with our relationship to the national collections.
"We will establish an explicit criteria [sic] to define the status of a 'national performing arts company' so as to include both adult and youth companies alike.
"To qualify for this status national performing bodies will have to meet exacting criteria, including achievement of the highest artistic performing standards.
"Excellence will be rewarded. We plan to increase funding for the companies which qualify, beyond the level currently made available through the Scottish Arts Council."

And who will be the judge of whether a company meets the criteria to qualify for the status of a national performing arts company?

And what happened to the safety provisions to protect the arts companies from political and bureaucratic interference?

It's enough to make you weep...