A new organisation has launched to promote equal opportunities for underrepresented artists looking to pursue their careers in art.
The International Body of Art (IBA), founded by art dealer Maria Artool and arts practitioner April Kelly, says it is seeking to break boundaries within fine arts in light of statistics showing that only 2.7% of the fine arts workforce are from Black, Asian or ethnically-diverse backgrounds.
It hopes its programme of exhibitions and installations will provide a vital platform for emerging artists to build connections, gain publicity and further their careers.
“Within an often exclusive art world, our mission is to break down the entrenched barriers that exist – which often confine creativity," CEO of IBA, Maria Artool said.
"This means offering up a platform for underrepresented artists to thrive. Change demands more than mere representation; it requires authentic inclusion. Too often, the art world’s embrace of marginalised artists comes in the form of token gestures.
“Our vision is to help create an art community that intertwines and weaves together talent from every corner. True diversity is about connection and collaboration and offering up a platform for everyone to discover their talents, passions and interests within the space.
"The time has come to redefine the narrative and trade tokenism for true resonance. Collaboration isn’t fashionable, but essential.”