Trial by social media: Australia Council vs the donors

Social media is abuzz with commentary about the Venice Biennale following reports of disgruntled donors. We summarise some of the debate.

Tracey Moffatt MY HORIZON at the Australian Pavilion, Biennale Arte 2017. Credit: John Gollings.

Earlier this week the Australia Council for the Arts announced that it has abolished its tradition of appointing an independent commissioner – usually an eminent art expert or patron – to select the artist who will represent Australia in Venice. A more democratic process, including an open call for Expressions of Interest, has been introduced.

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Gina Fairley is ArtsHub's Senior Contributor, after 12 years in the role as National Visual Arts Editor. She has worked for extended periods in America and Southeast Asia, as gallerist, arts administrator and regional contributing editor for a number of magazines, including Hong Kong based Asian Art News and World Sculpture News. She is an Art Tour leader for the AGNSW Members, and lectures regularly on the state of the arts. She is based in Mittagong, regional NSW. Instagram: fairleygina