Our arts editor is retiring after 20 years. Here’s what she learned
Sep 23, 2024
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Jan Dalley, who recently retired after a remarkable 20 years as the arts editor for the Financial Times, shares her insights on the evolving landscape of the art world. She discusses how engagement with culture has drastically changed, revealing challenges within the industry and the realities artists face as they become savvy businesspeople. Dalley emphasizes the importance of arts education, the often-unwelcoming environment of cultural sectors, and encourages a joyful approach to art collecting as a means to enrich life.
The transformation of the arts landscape over two decades emphasizes luxury branding and media evolution, reshaping how audiences engage with art.
To appreciate art deeply, individuals are encouraged to explore diverse cultural events, fostering openness and combating the complacency of rigid preferences.
Deep dives
Reflections on Career Changes in the Arts
The arts landscape has undergone significant transformation over the past two decades, with the evolution of both the industry and the role of critics situated within it. Changes in luxury branding, for instance, showcase how increased investment has altered the cultural scene, bringing newfound glamour and visibility. Additionally, advancements in media, particularly the rise of platforms like podcasting, have expanded the ways in which art can be disseminated and celebrated. Such shifts reflect a broader movement within culture that emphasizes accessibility and engagement with audiences, marking a departure from less inclusive past practices.
The Importance of Engagement with Art
Advising on how to experience arts and culture, the emphasis is placed on the value of attending a diverse array of events and exhibitions. This approach not only helps build familiarity with different forms of art but also combats complacency that can set in with over-familiarity or rigid preferences. Encouraging exploration fosters an openness to new experiences, ensuring that one remains receptive to both good and bad surprises in the cultural sector. Ultimately, this journey of engagement is crucial for anyone looking to deepen their appreciation and understanding of the arts.
Challenges and Opportunities in Arts Accessibility
The accessibility of the arts is highlighted as a central theme, particularly regarding economic factors and educational opportunities. While advances have been made in certain facets of the arts, such as museums becoming more prominent and interactive spaces, concerns remain regarding the decline of arts education in schools. This lack of institutional support presents barriers for aspiring artists and audiences alike, ultimately hindering the democratization of creative expression. Nevertheless, commercial galleries provide free access to high-quality exhibitions, demonstrating that opportunities to engage with art do exist, even for those on a budget.
Today, we bring you a special conversation with Jan Dalley, who has just retired as the FT’s arts editor after almost 20 years. When Jan stepped into her job, terrestrial TV ruled, podcasts didn’t exist and the art world wasn’t quite so luxe. And video games? Newspapers didn’t review video games. She joins Lilah in the studio to reflect on how the arts have changed over these two decades (“beyond recognition!”), divulge what the art world is really like (“gruelling”) and share some excellent advice for exploring culture.
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