Policies

#ATrustedSpace

The hashtag #ATrustedSpace was adopted in 2020 to clearly indicate that Visual Artists Ireland provides a space that is free of bias, conflict, criticism, or potentially threatening actions, ideas, or conversations. Non-partisan advice is given freely and personal missions are eschewed. This is the concept of a safe space which we feel has become more and more necessary as society faces into the challenges of bigotry, fear, and the feeling of powerlessness.

We do not tolerate tolerate violence, harassment, or hate speech. We fully support freedom of speech and open discussion. However, such discussion should not seek to marginalise, victimise, nor cause harm either physical or mental. All VAI members and staff are subject to a Code of Behaviour in keeping with our conditions set by being a learning organisation.

While these tenets have always been integral to VAI’s spirit and actions, the current environment emphasises the importance of explicit statements. Such statements reflect, rather than constrain or limit, our core beliefs. To embody our commitment to genuine action rather than performative gestures, VAI has carefully evaluated the principles underpinning #ATrustedSpace and has established the following clear guidelines:

Artistic expression has been an integral part of human civilisation, with visual arts serving as a powerful medium for communication, reflection, and transformation. In Ireland, a vibrant and dynamic community of visual artists, from a wide range of cultural, social, economic and gender identity backgrounds, has been shaping the cultural landscape, pushing boundaries, and challenging perceptions through their creative endeavours. From professional development opportunities and advice programs to advocating for fair compensation and improved working conditions, VAI is dedicated to ensuring that these visual artists are equipped with, and can gain equitable access to, the resources, networks, and support they need to thrive both creatively and professionally.

  • Workshops and Skill Development: We organise workshops and training sessions focused on enhancing artistic skills, creative thinking, and professional development. We ensure that these opportunities are accessible to artists from diverse backgrounds and skill levels, regardless of their financial means or geographical location.
  • Mentorship Programs: We add to the nurturing environment for talent to flourish and build a more equitable and diverse art community.
  • Funding: We advertise funding opportunities that include artists from under- represented backgrounds or those facing financial challenges. We ensure that processes are inclusive and accessible, ensuring that all artists have a fair chance to access funding for their projects.
  • Physical & Virtual Platforms: We reach a broad audience and overcome geographical barriers through diverse communication channels, which continue to evolve as society adopts new methods. We also use these platforms to showcase the work of emerging artists and bring attention to diverse artistic perspectives.
  • Awareness and Advocacy: We raise awareness about the importance of diversity and inclusion in the art community through campaigns, talks, and discussions, and continue to advocate for equitable opportunities and representation in national, local and EU government level, galleries, museums, and art institutions.
  • Collaborative Projects: We encourage collaborations between artists with different backgrounds and perspectives. These projects result in the creation of an environment that promotes unity within the art community through knowledge and respect.
  • Education: Our programmes address the broad spectrum of practice areas, including those that are under-represented as part of our main programmes. By providing this exposure for the many modes of expression, we inspire and create understanding between artists from diverse backgrounds and practice areas.
  • Artist Residencies: We provide artist residency in the form of funding awards that provide artists with the time, space, and resources to develop their work. We ensure that these opportunities are equitable and open to a wide range of artists, including those with disabilities or other barriers to participation.
  • Feedback and Support: We operate a structured feedback and support system where artists can receive constructive critiques and guidance on their work.
  • “Within Ecological Means” To ensure that our work is delivered within ecological means, Visual Artists Ireland incorporates sustainability and environmentally conscious practices through our programs and initiatives.
  • Sustainable Materials: We educate and encourage artists to use sustainable and eco-friendly materials in their artwork. We provide information and resources on environmentally friendly art supplies, such as recycled paper, non-toxic paints, and natural pigments through dedicated lifelong learning events. We practice what we preach by utilising sustainable materials in our work. The prime example is that The Visual Artists News Sheet is full recyclable, including the materials used by fulfilment in its circulation.
  • Upcycling and Re-purposing: We promote the concept of upcycling and re-purposing materials to create art. We encourage artists to find creative ways to transform discarded or unused items into meaningful and visually appealing artwork. Carbon Offsetting: We implement carbon offsetting measures for our services, events and activities.
  • Renewable Energy: As we move to a new building, we are encouraging our new landlord, Temple Bar Cultural Trust, to ensure that our facilities are powered by renewable energy sources.
  • Virtual Events and Digital Initiatives: Our default is for virtual events, workshops, and exhibitions so as to reduce the need for travel and physical resources. We use digital platforms to reach a broad audience while minimizing the carbon footprint associated with physical gatherings. Physical events, when requested, are offset.
  • Local Engagement: We focus on supporting artists in their local communities, reducing the need for long-distance transportation and resources. This approach also strengthens local art scenes and foster a sense of environmental responsibility within the community.
  • Waste Reduction: Our green policy ensures that we observe waste reduction practices during events and activities.
  • Sustainable Partnerships: To assist in our delivery, we collaborate with eco-conscious organizations that share a commitment to environmental sustainability. Together, we amplify the message of eco-friendly practices and create a more substantial impact.
  • Educational Initiatives: We offer educational programs and workshops that highlight the importance of art in environmental activism and sustainability. We highlight artists who use their work as a medium to engage the public in discussions about ecological challenges and potential solutions.

By integrating ecological principles into our activities, Visual Artists Ireland contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally responsible art community while upholding the values of “Personal Excellence with Equitable Opportunities.” This approach benefits the artists and the art world and promotes a deeper connection the environment.

ALL Artists; ALL Art; ALL Welcome

  • Personal excellence is a journey unique to each artist, and equitable opportunities play a crucial role in providing a level playing field for all individuals to develop their artistic skills and achieve their goals.
  • Equitable: we understand that artists need different types of supports that allow them to take advantage of opportunities. VAI’s range of services, learning events, and individual help desk and advice services are designed to achieve this. Our work with commissioners and other parties who wish to engage with visual artists continues to promote the design of opportunities so that they are made available to the widest range of artists.
  • All Artists: we understand that VAI supports artists at all stages of their professional careers. This is across the broad range of visual arts disciplines. It encourages engagement by all artists and provide artists of different cultural backgrounds or groups who are under-represented with access to the supports and learning required to develop their careers. We understand that not all visual artists will become members of VAI and there are those who will never receive funding or other supports from public bodies, but we remain available and extend our services to them when they are most needed. We understand that it is an important part of our work that we make ourselves available at the local as well as national level. Therefore, our events, consultations and network creation all ensure that we are a presence where artists live and work as well as a trusted voice for them at a national level as well as providing access for them to their peer network.

VAI is dedicated to supporting artists across all disciplines, career stages, and cultural identities. We believe that our unwavering commitment to fostering a trusted space through concrete actions clearly demonstrates our values and intentions. While some may demand explicit statements addressing their specific causes, we encourage them instead to review our actions and outcomes, as we prefer investing our resources directly into meaningful support rather than providing performative proofs.