DEI Action Plan

Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion Action Plan

All Artists, All Art, All Welcome

We are committed to supporting a diverse range
of creative people, communities, and activity, promoting an equality of opportunity to create, participate and engage.

This includes:

  • a commitment to tackling inequalities for people who experience exclusion or are marginalised
  • helping to a support a more diverse workforce, (including those who govern and lead); and
  • considering how to incorporate EDI in artistic and creative programming, where appropriate.
  • Recognition of Inequities: VAI began by recognising the existing inequities within the visual arts sector. This includes disparities in representation, access to resources, and opportunities based on factors such as race, gender, disability, socioeconomic status, and more.
  • Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI): VAI made a formal commitment to promote Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion within its organisation and the broader arts community. This commitment was reflected in their mission, values, and strategic planning.
  • Internal Structural Changes: VAI initiated internal structural changes to ensure equity within its own organisation. This included diversifying its board of directors and staff  to reflect the communities it serves. They implemented equitable hiring practices, provided diversity training, and established policies to prevent discrimination and promote inclusivity.
  • Program Development: VAI developed programs and initiatives specifically aimed at promoting equity and inclusion within the visual arts sector. This may include targeted content, multilingual information provision, and accessibility functionality for underrepresented artists, mentorship programs, networking events, and educational resources, made available to all artists and organisations working within the context of EDI.
  • Community Engagement: VAI actively engaged with the broader arts community to promote dialogue, awareness, and action around issues of equity, diversity, and inclusion. This involved collaborating with artist groups, hosting community forums and events, and amplifying the voices of marginalised artists within the context of professional art careers.
  • Advocacy and Policy Change: VAI engaged in advocacy efforts to influence systemic change within the arts sector. This may include advocating for more inclusive policies and practices within arts institutions, and supporting initiatives aimed at addressing systemic inequities.
  • Continuous Learning and Improvement: VAI recognises that promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion is an ongoing process that requires continuous learning and adaptation. VAI regularly evaluates programs and initiatives, solicits feedback from stakeholders, and adjusts strategies based on lessons learned and emerging best practices.
  • The Unity Tree actively engages with all of our thoughts, ideas and actions. We use the Unity Tree to serve as a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from working together in harmony and solidarity. By nurturing a culture of inclusion, trust, and support, the visual arts community can continue to flourish and thrive for generations to come.