Axisweb Research Validation beyond the gallery | Page 12

Phase one: conclusions

8

A number of representatives questioned the value of
visibility in its own right, particularly in the context
of work with a social focus. The notion of mainstream
success and reputation were questioned, with
several respondents suggesting that socially-engaged
work outside of galleries rests upon a different set
of criteria. Others felt that artists’ perceptions of
success is linked to the freedom of opportunity to
pursue a personal practice and make a living:
My question is why do you want it or need
it? … What does visibility do or give you, and
what does it look like, what is it?
(Rachel Anderson)
However, others felt that artists working in this
way are disadvantaged in comparison to artists in
other fields, and thus require more support fr