Ausdance VIC calls for transparency and reinstatement of Australia’s Venice Biennale representatives.
Ausdance VIC is deeply concerned by the decision taken by Creative Australia to cancel the appointment of Lebanese-Australian artist, Khaled Sabsabi and his collaborator Michael D’Agostino as Australia’s representatives at the prestigious Venice Biennale.
The lack of explanation behind this cancellation:
- Compromises the integrity of an independent, expert-led selection process.
- Undermines transparency and accountability, as selections should be based solely on peer-reviewed artistic merit.
- Misses a critical opportunity to showcase the richness and diversity of Australia’s multicultural arts community on a global stage.
Ausdance VIC board and staff stand with our peers in calling on Creative Australia to:
- Reinstate Khaled Sabsabi and Michael D’Agostino as Australia’s official representatives at the Venice Biennale.
- Clarify the decision-making process and engage in an open dialogue to ensure greater transparency and independence in future selections.
- Uphold strong governance to protect against external pressures that may influence expert panel decisions.
The purpose of contemporary art is to make statements on matters of public interest, reflect unique aspects of society and to help us understand the human condition.
We call on Creative Australia to affirm its commitment to creative freedom and multicultural communities and work with us to realise the Australian government’s National Cultural Policy, Revive: a place for every story, a story for every place.