West Space stands for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza

Artists in our community are speaking truth to power, emboldening and activating their audiences. Globally, we are witnessing an unacceptable level of backlash, moral violence, bullying and silencing.

Artists: we see you. We recognise and support the important work that you are doing — and you are not alone.

Solidarity practices are at the core of our work, including a clear commitment to ethical funding and partnerships. We will not seek funding from groups or individuals silencing artists, supporting the genocide in Gaza, or other sites of racial slavery, conflict, social or ecological devastation. We understand this requires our constant attention and consideration. We are passionate and vigilant about upholding our values, with the artists we work with front of mind.

If you're looking for ways to learn and contribute, the Australian Palestine Advocacy Network is a good place to start.

→ 17 November 2023

West Space stands with Khaled Sabsabi & Michael Dagostino

Khaled Sabsabi and Michael Dagostino were selected as the artistic team to represent Australia at the 2026 Venice Biennale through a rigorous and professionally independent open-call process.

Khaled Sabsabi is an internationally renowned artist whose work is reflective rather than reactive. His artworks are nuanced and thoughtful meditations on belief, power, violence, Western perceptions and fears of cultural difference, and the space for spirituality in the everyday. We strongly reject the vilification of Khaled by conservative news media and politicians.

Over three decades, Khaled’s artistic practice has sought to break down binaries and to form connections, rather than divisions. His work reflects back the inequities and double-standards of those in power—it is not an endorsement, but rather a critique of this power. In an ever-polarising world, we need more, not less, of work like Khaled’s in the public realm to create space for contemplation and coming-together across difference.

For West Space, freedom of expression means allowing space for complexity, for truth-telling, for nuanced discussion led by artistic practice. We believe that revoking support for Khaled and his important practice sets an alarming and distressing precedent–one that must be challenged to protect the space for plurality and freedom in our collective culture.

The long-term negative impact on contemporary practice and culture-making in this nation—and our international reputation—cannot be overstated. We advocate for the integrity of the independent review process, and for Creative Australia to remain committed to supporting outstanding and diverse Australian art without fear. Our collective future is at stake.

→ 14 February 2025