In recent years, there has been an increasing trend towards holding arts organizations accountable for their partnerships and funding sources. A recent open letter signed by over 600 artists and art workers, calling on the Tate in London to sever ties with organizations connected to Israel, is a prime example of this trend. The letter specifically targets the Zabludowicz Art Trust, Zabludowicz Art Projects, and Outset Contemporary Art Fund, run by Anita and Poju Zabludowicz and Candida Gertler.
The signatories of the letter include prominent figures in the art world, such as Turner Prize winners Charlotte Prodger, Helen Cammock, and Lawrence Abu Hamdan. Their involvement in the letter lends weight to the argument that these organizations should be divested from, as these artists’ opinions hold significant influence within the industry.
An important aspect of this letter is the accusation that the groups’ founders are connected to Israel’s “genocidal” policies in Gaza. The letter cites findings from the International Court of Justice and the United Nations that describe Israel’s military actions as being consistent with genocide and apartheid. This accusation raises important ethical concerns about the organizations and their associations.
A further point made in the letter is the role of the Zabludowicz Art Trust and Outset Contemporary Art Fund in “artwashing,” or the use of partnerships with museums and artists to obscure ethically dubious political connections. This raises questions about the ethical responsibilities of museums in vetting and considering the sources of funding and partnerships they engage with.
Furthermore, the Zabludowiczes’ closure of their private museum in London in 2023, following scrutiny over Poju Zabludowicz’s business ties to pro-Israel groups, is an important development. This suggests that there is growing recognition and awareness within the industry of the need to address potential ethical concerns related to funding sources.
It is worth noting that this letter comes after students at Goldsmiths were successful in ending the art school’s relationship with Candida and Zak Gertler, the directors of Outset Contemporary Art Fund. These students demanded divestment from the Gertlers due to their personal links to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and their financial support for his political campaigns. This success highlights the potential impact of organized student protests and the growing influence of ethical considerations within the art world.
As the art industry continues to grapple with these issues, it is important for organizations like the Tate to carefully consider their partnerships and funding sources. Transparency and accountability are crucial in maintaining the integrity and ethical standards of the art world.
In terms of future trends, it is likely that there will continue to be a focus on ethical considerations in the art industry. Artists and art workers are increasingly using their platforms to call for divestment from organizations with controversial associations, as seen in this open letter. This trend is likely to grow as artists become more aware of their influence and the power they hold within the industry.
Recommendations for the industry include implementing clear guidelines and policies on ethical sourcing of funding and partnerships. Museums and art institutions should develop comprehensive vetting processes to ensure that their associations align with their stated values and commitments to equality and social impact. This will involve transparent communication with artists and stakeholders about the steps taken to ensure ethical funding.
The art industry should also engage in a broader conversation about the role of art and its potential to effect social change. By fostering dialogue and collaboration between artists, institutions, and the public, the industry can contribute to meaningful progress in addressing systemic issues and supporting marginalized communities.
In conclusion, the open letter calling for the Tate in London to sever ties with organizations connected to Israel reflects a growing trend in the art industry towards ethical considerations and accountability. It highlights the importance of transparency, integrity, and a commitment to social impact within the industry. To adapt to these trends, museums and art institutions should develop guidelines and policies on ethical sourcing of funding and partnerships, as well as engage in broader conversations about the role of art in effecting positive change.
References:
- https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2021/nov/30/virginia-mansons-legacy-radiates-through-artists-she-nurtured
- https://hyperallergic.com/717458/turner-prize-shortlisters-urge-tate-to-divest-from-israel-tied-art-organizations/
- https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2022/11/israel-and-occupied-palestinian-territories-amnesty-takes-landmark-step-and-says-crimes-against-humanity-of-apartheid-categorisation-have-become-literally-unquestionable/
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on publicly available sources and personal opinions. The author does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information contained herein. The article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. The author and the website hosting the article shall not be liable for any damages resulting from the use or reliance on this article.