WEEK3

The articles “Artists Running: Fifty Years of Scottish Cultural Devolution” and “Biting the Hand That Feeds You: A Strategy of Wayward Curating” each offer insights into the nuanced dynamics between grassroots and institutional curatorial approaches in the art world. “Artists Running” explores the evolution and significance of Scottish Artist-Run Initiatives (ARIs), highlighting their pivotal role in cultivating cultural decentralisation and artistic innovation (Brown, 2018). On the other hand, “Biting the Hand That Feeds You” investigates the potential for resistance and divergence from conventional curatorial approaches, introducing the concept of “wayward curating” as a means to contest established power structures and norms (Whittle, 2019).

Both pieces critically examine conventional art institutions and curatorial approaches, advocating for art spaces that are more open, inclusive, and flexible in their approach to art production and presentation. They stress the significance of communal efforts and collective action in moulding the discourse and practice of art while also acknowledging the obstacles and challenges presented by both the internal and external frameworks of art organisations.

The primary distinction between the two lies in their foci and strategies. “Artists Running” investigates how independent art venues serve as platforms for artistic expression and interaction and the impact these spaces have on cultural policies and the broader art ecosystem from a structural and historical perspective (Brown, 2018). Conversely, “Biting the Hand That Feeds You” explores how individuals and small collectives can pursue and enact autonomy and innovation within existing art structures (Whittle, 2019).