The South Australian Government has engaged Mr Tony Grybowski, the former Chief Executive of the Australia Council for the Arts, to lead the development of a new Arts Plan for South Australia.
He will work in partnership with strategic consultant Mr Graeme Gherashe and a team of experts to undertake a comprehensive review of the state’s arts, cultural and creative sector and its funding structures.
Premier Steven Marshall said the development of the first arts plan since 2000 is a pillar of his government’s election commitments for the arts. “We are very pleased to be working with such great leaders in the field of arts and cultural strategy,” said the Premier.
“I am pleased that Mr Grybowski and Mr Gherashe’s approach to the significant task ahead is positive, and moreover, I’m confident that their collective experience will result in the development of a plan which is based on broad and extensive consultation.”
Mr Grybowski and Mr Gherashe will be joined by award-winning author Dr Claire Scobie, arts policy specialist Kathryn Deyell and creative director and cultural geographer Dr Sarah Barns to engage with stakeholders.
These consultations will take the form of digital surveys, focus groups, interviews and ‘town-hall’ meetings that will be held across the state. An Advisory Group comprising South Australian and national arts and industry leaders will be established early in the process.
Mr Grybowski said the importance of physically going to rural and remote areas and communities, and not just Adelaide for meetings, is critical.
“We’re looking forward to meeting artists and stakeholders in metropolitan, rural and remote areas to hear their stories, ideas and aspirations. This will help us to understand better the needs of the rich and diverse communities across South Australia,” said Mr Grybowski.
South Australia’s reputation as an arts and culture centre is well-known around the world. The sector employs more than 16,000 people and is characterised by a rich diversity of practice and practitioners, unique and historic assets and facilities, world-renowned festivals and collections, and state-of-the-art creative industries.
The resulting plan will introduce a fresh narrative about arts and culture throughout South Australia and propose a compelling story of what the state’s arts, cultural and creative sector aspires to become. The Arts Plan will be developed over the next six months and delivered by mid-year. For more information, visit: www.arts.sa.gov.au for details.
Image: Art Gallery of South Australia