THE Bass Coast Shire Council has just announced that Expressions of Interest (EOI) are open for a significant Public Art Commission to be purchased and located at the Berninneit Cultural Centre in Cowes.
The budget for the purchase of a suitable piece of public art is $140,000.
But if you consider the criteria by which art will be acquired, according to shire’s new Art Collections Policy, blokes need not apply.
Art will be selected for acquisition based on, among other things, “artworks that increase gender equity in number and value.”
And as Cr Leticia Laing pointed out at the council meeting last Wednesday, the number of artworks in the council’s collection is heavily weighted towards male artists and is a situation that should be addressed.
Cr Rochelle Halstead, also speaking in the debate at the last council meeting, after moving the motion to adopt the policy, said she would prefer to see art selected on merit rather than on the gender of the artists.
“As Chair of the Bass Coast Arts and Culture Advisory Committee, I am aware of the input by the committee and the broader arts groups across Bass Coast on this policy, supportive of a framework for the collection of artworks by Bass Coast It is important to ensure the long term benefits, sustainability, relevance, preservation and accessibility for all to enjoy,” said Cr Halstead.
“I am however cautious when discussing equity in the arts, although I wish to see more representation of gender equality, I'm also mindful that the arts should be considered on merit, being an expression of the artist, rather than based on gender.
“That would be my only concern, and it was also expressed by the committee themselves at a recent Arts and Culture Advisory Committee meeting.”
Cr Leticia Laing, also a former chair of the arts and culture advisory committee did not shy away from the point of wanting to have more work from female artists in the shire’s collection.
“I don't know why I feel like I have to say this, but I do, because it seems like this concept of merit comes up when gender equity is discussed in the community, and I find it bizarre, because the reality is that art isn't evaluated historically on the basis of merit.
“It's men that are prioritized because people aren't recognizing their own internal biases in favor of male artwork when they're evaluating art.
“Now it's interesting to note, and it says this in the report, that 71% of artists who graduate from art school are women, but our arts collection does not reflect that statistic.
“We have a disproportionate amount of male artists, and it does not follow that male artists are better artists. It just actually follows that women are consistently having to come across this merit-based argument when we are faced with discrimination on a daily basis.
“So, I just wanted to highlight that. I think it's excellent that the arts collection policy is addressing the inequity in our arts collection and it also recognises legislative requirements to abide by the terms of the Gender Equality Act.”
All may well be revealed when council selects the major piece of public art it is looking for at Berninneit.
Council’s media release about acquiring a piece of public art for Berninneit continues:
Berninneit, a name that carries the Bunurong meaning "Gather Together," is a space that embodies the spirit of community connectedness through cultural activities. The Berninneit Public Art Commission aims to celebrate the region's unique cultural heritage and foster community engagement by creating an integrated artwork that will become a focal point of this vibrant new venue.
This project envisions a dynamic and inclusive process, bringing together local residents and communities in a collaborative effort to create a work of art that reflects the rich character of the Bass Coast region, the Island, and the cultural centre itself. By actively involving diverse stakeholders, the project seeks to promote a strong sense of community ownership and connection, ensuring that the final artwork resonates deeply with both locals and visitors.
The commissioned artwork will enhance the cultural centre’s significance as a gathering place for all.
Key Dates and Information:
* Interested artists and collectives are encouraged to read the Berninneit Public Art Commission Brief for detailed information about the project.
* Applications close at midnight on Sunday, 15 September 2024.
* Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an on-site interview.
* The outcome of the EOI process will be announced in November 2025.
Bass Coast Shire Council invites artists to contribute to this inspiring project that celebrates community and cultural heritage in a unique setting.
For more information and to submit your Expression of Interest, please click HERE.
