It is disappointing that the Liberal and Labor candidates for the electorate of Gosford have not offered us an opportunity to consider their art and culture policies before the March 24th election.
This is not only a discourtesy to the many constituents that are involved in the arts at a professional and community level, but indicates a low ranking in these candidate’s priorities for the cultural sector.
It also indicates that the art community has much to do to educate those who would represent us.
Perhaps it is not surprising that the major parties, whose campaigns are so tightly managed and “presidential” were the ones whose candidates adhered so strongly to the script. A check of the Labor and Liberal websites could find no arts policy on either.
Which makes the “Policy” contribution by Grant McBride all the more appreciated, both as a demonstration of responsiveness to constituent initiatives and as a commitment to the development of dialogue about the future of art and culture on the Central Coast. Considerable time and effort was put into preparing and tailoring his policy statement for the region. We hope his "policy" will be read by many in his electorate.
Grant however is not a candidate in the Gosford electorate, which was our focus.
Debra Wales, Independent, stated honestly her limited acquaintance with art and culture matters, but indicated a willingness to respond to issues raised by any constituents. Her courtesy in responding to our invitation is also much appreciated.
Hillary Morris, Greens, produced a thoroughly researched policy in terms of local priorities, as identified in the Vision 2025 Council document, and clear support for freedom of artistic expression. We respect and appreciate the efficiency with which she responded to the invitation to present her policy.
It is also significant to note that the Greens alone have a detailed Arts Policy on their website.
Of the candidates in the Gosford electorate, Hillary has given us the most comprehensive policy to consider, and a clear indication of her commitment to the future development of art and culture for the community.
A personal note on the recalcitrant candidates: Without a statement we can only rely on personal observations. Chris Holstein has been a visible presence at many gallery openings and other cultural occasions. On the Labor website it states: “As Chairman of the Building Committee (Gosford Council), Chris has initiated the building of Peninsula Leisure Centre, Central Coast Stadium, Gosford Regional Gallery and Niagara Park Sports Stadium.”
Marie Andrews, in the old electorate of Peats, has a reputation as being responsive to the electorate and a hard and dedicated worker. She made effective representation to Bob Carr (then Premier and Minister for the Arts) when attempts were being made to establish a contemporary art centre at Mt. Penang.
Their silence on this occasion is cause for disappointment.
We will be running this invitation to candidates to present Art and Culture policies in all future elections, so the task now is to work with them to raise the profile of art and culture in the region, and to ensure that we have policies that include new genres of emerging practice.
Ed.
1 comment:
Well said Ed - although the art policy questions were aimed towards the Gosford City Council, being from the north, i.e. resident in the Wyong Shire Council, share your dismay as to the lack of concern, that no response has indicated. That’s O.K, because it's funny how local artists are attached to families and businesses based on the Central Coast.
These “Presidential” parties should know, via their expensive marketing campaigns, that ignoring the Grey, Pink, Green, and swinging voters, may cost them places and preferences in the election. Heaven forbid, if 10% of the voters are aged, gay hippies, who are professional artists from large families that own major businesses!
Post a Comment