J. Paul Getty Trust’s Post

Reposting this as the grand Cai's firework show - the opening ceremony of this year's PST ART festival and the following AI forum approaching ahead! Beyond the Human?: From the Metaphysical to the Physical Also visit the link below for more information about the AI forum with Cai and many esteemed guests on Sep.16 at USC. Although the topic related to the interplay between AI and art has been discussed multiple times in recent years, and even put into a very macro or philosophical level for cliché in some cases, I still believe that the role of AI in art, especially visual art, has a scope that needs to be precisely designed, and I hope to take part in the forum on the 16th with some understandings and unresolved doubts, and I am very much looking forward to it! https://lnkd.in/gWnq3ayT The recent rejection of the use of AI by the Procreate CEO is also a highly relevant topic, and Wired has an article that tells the story in detail: https://lnkd.in/g7STueXj

When doing research for my book about the impact artists can have on interdisciplinary collaboration, I came across some terrific content which I’ve decided to share in a series of posts. Today I want to share this: 'What we have learnt so far from artists working in policy' from the Policy Lab blog https://lnkd.in/gyDNAxc7

This week further controversy follows Tasmania’s Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), where artist of the recent ladies' only lounge installation, Kirsha Kaechele, has now revealed they faked the world renowned Piccasso paintings among other famed artists. Irrespective of the legality and ethical implications of the latest admission, it begs the question, is it ever okay to have gender exclusive spaces? Last week, we asked for your thoughts on whether female-only supports and programmes do more harm than good. To date 88% of voters agree that female-only supports and programmes deliver more benefits than potential harm. However, one might ask how do we create an inclusive world by being exclusive? Our thoughts - it’s about balance, purpose and time: ⚖ Balance: 👉 We need to do to more outside of these spaces to reduce the need for them in the first place. Often described by their curators as safe spaces, their existence confirms that participant’s external environments fail to make them feel so or lack the supports to do so. 👉 It’s important to understand why individuals not included or not participating feel discouraged or threatened by such supports and work directly with them to have clear communication on the intended purpose. Every voice should be heard. 🏹 Purpose: 👉 We need to take the time to inform audiences on the purpose of the spaces. Different spaces and programmes serve different needs. 👉 Two things can be true at the same time. The need for dedicated supports and spaces in which marginalised and underserved groups can feel supported to succeed does not negate the needs of others, and efforts towards inclusivity should continue in collaboration with such supports. ⏳ Time: 👉 We need to understand the temporal need for such spaces. Right now, such supports are needed. However, by definition, if successful, these spaces should become redundant as we grow closer to a society in which inclusion is the norm and everyone feels safe and valued in all environments. What are your thoughts? #GenderEquality #inclusion #exclusion https://lnkd.in/g9aXPVa9

This was one of the most inclusive strategic planning projects I’ve every been a part of, and even included community discussions from coast-to-coast-coast. Why does this matter? A plan that reflects the voices of those it intends to benefit is crucial to its success. I’m in continuous admiration of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights’ efforts to create a world where everyone respects human rights. Check out the case study to learn more about our work together! #strategicplanning #impact #humanrights Junxion Strategy

We recently came across some thought-provoking insights from Eric Gottesman, cofounder of For Freedoms. In an article by Kate Dwyer published on Esquire linked below, Gottesman raises a crucial point: “Philanthropy is unsustainable.” Many artists face the harsh reality of relying on fluctuating funding, which can be a precarious way to make a living. For Freedoms takes a refreshing approach by not requiring artists to justify their work through metrics. As Gottesman puts it, “Artists’ work is that impact.” This acknowledgment is vital in a world where artists often feel pressure to quantify their value. Moreover, as noted by Laura Callanan, American artists have long subsidized the arts through low pay, student debt, and juggling multiple gigs just to create. This highlights the importance of support systems like residencies and grants from organizations like Creative Capital and Yaddo. Here are a few evergreens for us in the industry: - Challenge Traditional Funding Models: We need to advocate for sustainable practices that support artists without placing undue pressure on them to measure their worth. - Recognize the Value of Artistic Work: Let’s celebrate the intrinsic impact of art without the need for quantifiable metrics. - Support Artist Residencies and Grants: These opportunities are crucial for nurturing creativity and providing financial relief to artists. Let’s continue to rethink how we support our creative communities! 🎭🤝 #ArtsPhilanthropy #SustainableArts #SupportArtists #CreativeCommunity

I love bold ideas for reshaping the way we support arts & culture in our country. This is an interesting one: what if we funded operating costs as infrastructure? "As with infrastructure projects such as the building and maintenance of highways, funding cultural institutions will directly support employment: Culture in the United States employs about five million people and pumps about $1 trillion into the economy annually. New funding would boost local economies, cultivate a more equitable arts sector, and promote and protect arts organizations in small and medium-size cities. It would help to disentangle larger arts institutions from the largess of wealthy individuals and corporations, which currently wield an inordinate and thorny amount of influence. (Think of the Sackler family.) And it could defang some of the most pernicious culture-war arguments against arts funding, since it’s much harder to object to paying to fix a museum’s leaky roof than to paying to exhibit a photograph." A good read! Thanks for sharing it Joe Waters!

I'm really saddened to hear the news that ONCA Arts is closing down. It feels like every week, another vital arts organisation is announcing their closure, and this latest loss is a huge blow for the sector 😢 The sad reality is that funding for the arts sector in the current climate is desperately limited. In a sector in which we should be singing each other's praises, championing the work of our peers, and working collectively to create a thriving industry, the lack of opportunity and financial backing is driving a culture of comparison and competition. The arts sector is often reduced to this archaic idea of a cold, white wall gallery space and there is a prevailing narrative that it is only for the elite but we offer SO much more. It's the artist exhibiting in their first solo show telling you this is the 'best day of their life', the families and groups who rely on the consistent delivery of our participatory activities as a vital link to community and connection, the artists chasing ambitious dreams with the help of a mentorship or small bursary, and the team behind these organisations whose genuine love and commitment to the sector outweighs the low pay, stretched capacity and uncertainty of their roles. Art is our vehicle for driving conversation, fostering meaningful connections and activating change. If only others could feel the value we arts workers feel about our industry. https://lnkd.in/eAVrUyHa

Have you heard about The Contribution Project? Watch here to learn about how a happiness boost is experienced by people with intellectual disabilities who participate in the project. Outstanding work from our own Dr Samuel Arnold https://lnkd.in/gAzd_cPy

Arts enthusiasts: check out this upcoming White House convening, Jan 30th, with a live stream available! An opportunity to explore how the arts can be used as a lever to change communities - and, what's super interesting about this, is the seemingly interdisciplinary approach to the conversation, including representatives from the arts community, as well as the built environment, health professionals, DEI/equity leaders, etc. "This national convening brings together leaders from various sectors, including government officials; policymakers; artists; advocates; academics; and philanthropic, labor, and community leaders to explore ideas, policies, and actions that can elevate the arts and humanities across the nation. In particular, the summit will delve into how the arts contribute to health and well-being, invigorate physical spaces, fuel democracy, and foster equitable outcomes."

Empowering Communities through Art: A Toolkit for Embedded Artistic Practice At coLAB Arts, we are deeply committed to the belief that the arts are essential in building stronger, more connected communities. Lane Michael Stanley was in residence this past year with permanent supportive housing organization Mission First Housing Group and has a fresh take on outlining a critical framework for how artists can embed themselves within communities to foster collaboration, connection, and meaningful impact. Community-embedded artistic practice is not just about creating art for an audience, but rather with the community—elevating shared stories and ensuring that every voice has the opportunity to be heard. The strategies discussed in this toolkit offer valuable insights for artists and community leaders looking to drive change through creative collaboration. Even if that means offering snacks and a place to charge a phone. Bravo Lane. We hope others are encouraged to consider this approach and how these practices can further engage and strengthen the communities we serve. Read the full article here and let us know what you think! https://lnkd.in/eepNnnEp #CommunityArt #CreativeCollaboration #ArtAndCommunity #CulturalInnovation #SocialImpact