Rules and best practices of visual arts sector to be documented in new booklet
JOHANNESBURG – Check out how to contribute towards the visual arts sector in South Africa.
The Visual Arts Network of South Africa (Vansa) is set to develop a set of rules, in the form of a norms and standards booklet, for the visual arts sector in South Africa by hosting a series of consultations to obtain input from the sector.
Vansa operates as a development agency for the visual arts in South Africa and promotes connection, access and innovation in the industry.
The creation of the booklet proves to be a landmark moment for the visual arts sector, which currently does not employ a universal best practice standard for professional work in the various fields within the sector. The booklet will be one of five in the entire world.
The agency, which has been tasked by the Department of Arts and Culture to develop guidelines for the visual arts community, is calling for input into guiding principles of the sector from all stakeholders in the industry.
Industry protocols developed by industry bodies will be detailed within the booklet by which all stakeholders can or must operate.
Rather than legislation, the guidelines to be set up through this process will entail a wide range of best practices regarding exhibitions, sales, studios, residencies, insurance, taxes, copyright and freedom of expression.
Such norms and standards are usual industry practice for many other sectors in South Africa and yet none have been established for the visual arts.
Considering that the visual arts are such a variant and complex sector, the norms and standards will need to take into account the range of practice and possibility across South Africa.
Don’t miss the consultation on 7 April at 9.30am at Vansa headquarters, located in New Doornfontein.
This meeting will serve as the first introductory consultation about the planned framework of the guidelines and to solicit comments and contributions, after which a further consultation session will be held, once a draft version of the document is in place, on 27 May.
Attend the consultation session and let your voice be heard, as well your input documented in the booklet to be published in July.
Details: 1st floor King Kong Building, 6 Verwey Street, New Doornfontein.
