#ArtisticExcellence and/or #Equity and maintaining high standards across the arts sector.
For centuries, the arts derived from European cultural traditions have enjoyed significant financial support for infrastructure, education, presentation, and unfortunately, this support has been limited to populations from historically underrecognized and marginalized backgrounds.
As a result, the gatekeepers in the arts, who have emerged and benefited from this system, often remain unaware of the rich voices and traditions of historically underrecognized and marginalized artists. This lack of exposure leads to assumptions about excellence that heavily favor the art they are familiar with. The decades of data don’t lie.
One practical consequence of this inequality in resources is that visual and performing artists working in European traditions have been given ample time, resources, and opportunities to refine their techniques. This privilege is not afforded to artists historically underrecognized and marginalized in terms of accessibility. It is crucial to recognize that comparing levels of artistic excellence, especially within a Eurocentric lens, with that of historically underrecognized and marginalized populations lacking access and equitable resources is inherently unfair.
As we continue these discussions on excellence and/or equity, let us strive for greater inclusivity and understanding. It is not and/or. It is and/and.
Let's celebrate the various range of artistic expressions from people who are historically underrecognized and marginalized and work towards creating a more equitable arts landscape where every artist has access to resources, education, and opportunities to showcase their talents.
Respectfully,
Dr. Roque Diaz
#ArtisticExcellence #EquityInTheArts #DEIMatters
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