Who Bears the Risk When Art Gets Controversial?

The question of who should assume risk when art becomes controversial—artist or employer—is explored by Vahri McKenzie of Edith Cowan University. McKenzie argues that while artists add societal value through risk-taking, they are often left exposed due to employment structures. In Australia, arts organizations operate under three governance models: private companies, incorporated non-profits, and cultural statutory authorities. Boards have become the dominant governing structure, but tensions arise when boards prioritize corporate risk management over artistic freedom. The Adelaide Writers Week incident in 2023, where dozens of artists withdrew to protest the rescinding of an invitation to Palestinian-Australian author Randa Abdel-Fattah, led to the resignation of director Louise Adler and the event's cancellation. McKenzie highlights that artists are often contractors, not employees, which externalizes financial and creative risks onto them. Recent cases include pianist Jayson Gillham's loss against Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and broadcaster Antoinette Lattouf's win against the ABC. McKenzie calls for slower decision-making, diverse board representation, and institutional courage to protect artists. She emphasizes that arts organizations cease to exist without artists.