Periodically, for one reason or another, we drag out the gallerys policies regarding freedom of speech and curatorial management. Usually this is in response to selections of work that someone considers provocative. Its important for students and our public audience to understand that curation is not censorship. Curation entails, among other things, the selection of works of art for collections and exhibitions, usually organized by a unifying theme or approach. Curation also determines where and how a work will be displayed. Likewise, DJs select music, editors select short stories, etc. Censorship is the suppression of speech or other public communication, which may be considered objectionable, harmful, sensitive, politically incorrect or inconvenient as determined by a government, a media outlet or by ideologically-driven parties. Censorship draws its power from intimidation, the threat of arrest, the threat of violence to persons or property, mob rule and cloaks its thuggish behavior in moral rectitude. With that in mind, please take a few minutes to read our free speech policy, which has been in effect since First Street opened in 1998. Weve also attached the HSU and CSU freedom of speech policies for you to peruse. Thanks - FSG FREEDOM OF SPEECH AND CURATORIAL MANAGEMENT AT HSU FIRST STREET GALLERY HUMBOLDT STATE UNIVERSITY FIRST STREET GALLERY FREEDOM OF SPEECH POLICY In matters that concern freedom of speech, Humboldt State First Street Gallery adheres to the policies and guidelines established by Humboldt State University and by the California State University and supported by case law. Freedom of speech is the foundation of our communities and our nation. The works that Humboldt State University First Street Gallery exhibits may awe, illuminate, challenge, bore, cause laughter, unsettle, confound, provoke, and, at times, offend. We defend the freedom to create content and exhibit such work anywhere in the world, and we recognize the privilege of living in a country where creating, exhibiting, and experiencing such work is a constitutional right. To exhibit a work of art is not to endorse the work or the vision, ideas, and opinions of the artist. It is to uphold the right of all to experience diverse visions and views. If and when controversies arise from the exhibition of a work of art, we welcome public discussion and debate with the belief that such discussion is integral to the experience of the art. Consistent with our fundamental commitment to freedom of speech, however, we will not censor exhibitions in response to political or ideological pressure. BEST PRACTICES WHEN ANTICIPATING NEGATIVE REACTION TO ART OR EXHIBITIONS OF ART Focus on the gallery’s mission, rather than the details. Contextualize an exhibition within the gallery’s exhibition history and the history of the artist. Use a straightforward, neutral approach. Make use of signage/educational programming. Written warnings or disclaimers should be informational and not prejudicial. Produce a variety of educational materials, websites, artists’ statements Create a publicity schedule and framework for the exhibition before it opens. Collect materials that identify the artist, the exhibition, and the larger context and history of the work.
Posted on: Fri, 09 Jan 2015 01:39:28 +0000
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