Are more artists self-censoring for fear of being called out? Where is this leading this sector? Image credit shutterstock.
In free democracies like Australia we assume artists can express what they want in their work without fear of persecution.
Unlike in some countries where they could be imprisoned for art that challenges political or moral standards, democracies are usually far more supportive of artists’ free speech.
Though in recent years, some artists have detected complex new pressures that are threatening to curtail what they feel they can say in their work.
ArtsHub's Arts Feature Writer Jo Pickup is based in Perth. An arts writer and manager, she has worked as a journalist and broadcaster for media such as the ABC, RTRFM and The West Australian newspaper, contributing media content and commentary on art, culture and design. She has also worked for arts organisations such as Fremantle Arts Centre, STRUT dance, and the Aboriginal Arts Centre Hub of WA, as well as being a sessional arts lecturer at The Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA).
