A number of opinion pieces in Sydney media have recently called for funding cuts in the arts.
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There is a particular incredulity about a person who spends all day behind a desk; who long ago gave away any pretension of journalism for the self-indulgent prison of his own opinion; whose only engagement with the real world is looking out his window but insists that his reality is the only valid one.
This kind of arrogance being spewed from the eastern suburbs could very well become the bane of regional art galleries such as our very own Griffith Regional Art Gallery (GRAG), which relies on funding as the foundation for preserving the rich culture of the city.
However, some would gladly see those funds cut without any appreciation of the realities facing regional galleries.
“Ideally, we’d shut down all tax-generated arts funding, state and federal immediately. Not only is it a drain on resources, it also produces terrible art,” one such philistine said.
You'd expect this dribble from an eastern suburbs troglodyte for whom money has long replaced any real sense of feeling; who would support tax breaks for huge multinationals but argue drought assistance for farmers is an interference in the free market of which they love so much.
Regional galleries, in particular, are a great staple to the community, bearing culture – oftentimes forgotten, such as the For Country, For Nation exhibition recently held at the GRAG which showcased the contribution the Indigenous have made to the defence of Australia. And, taxpayer funding is important for regional galleries to thrive.
For the past, present, and future it is necessary to preserve art, culture, and the essence of our community.
For the past: ‘The Camp of Mercy’ was represented in art in recognition of the Warangesda Aboriginal Mission.
For the present: The GRAG life drawing classes have created a sense of community and belonging that many desire; and works as an important tool in mental health recovery and therapy.
For the future: Art is a great way for children to exert their energies, explore their creative side and discover potential.
These are especially important in regional areas noted for their isolation. It would be a terrible shame to give all this up to satisfy the desire of somebody who believes life would be more pleasant without culture.
