Grafters Collective
A network of artists from working-class backgrounds and/or have faced barriers to the art world.
Artists
Exhibitions
-Class is Complicated
There are no strict rules on who can be included in Grafters Collective. Although the focus is on working-class emerging artists, we acknowledge this is a complex identity. Not everyone who has faced barriers in art due to their background/finances will identify with this term. Some reasons for resonating with the group might be: you feel socially different from the dominant art world demographic; you don’t have any industry connections; you have struggle financially. Additionally, Grafters Collective acknowledges experiences of intersectional identities and is understanding/ supportive of the barriers faced by this in the art world.
-Grafters Collective is close-knit
There will be a cap of 35 members of Grafters Collective at any one time. Grafters Collective will be a cohort of artists who know each other personally and make genuine friendships. We are often advised to “find your tribe” within the art world. This can be hard as a working-class person in elitist spaces. Grafters Collective can be a network that we can feel comfortable in.
-Grafters Collective is a support network
Grafters Collective can be a space to reach out to one another. We can use this network to share opportunities, organise exhibitions, attend openings/events with each other, offer feedback on work etc.
-Grafters Collective is solution focused
Grafters collective will be a safe space to discuss our frustrations concerning elitism in the art world but will focus on combatting this. Part of the Grafters Collective’s purpose is to raise issues concerning the elitism and nepotism present in the art world. However, as working- class artists, concentrating on this can be disheartening. The focus of the collective will be on positive acts of change for working class artists.
-Art should be for everyone
Grafters Collective believes that working-class people
should be able to become artists. Grafters Collective also believes that art should be accessible to a wide audience. Any exhibitions shown by Grafters Collective will be as accessible as possible with the facilities we have. Press releases and labelling will be free from art speak. Ways to engage local communities as well as art-industry will be considered.