BLAKView is a new professional development program to strengthen diverse voices in arts criticism, cultural commentary and creative writing across regional NSW.
It’s been developed in response to a recognised gap in regional arts practice.
“There’s not a lot of writing or reviews being done about art in regional NSW, and especially from Aboriginal, culturally diverse, LGBTI+, or regional people. We know there are people with the interest and passion, but maybe not the experience or confidence, or the outlets to publish what they write. That’s where our program comes from,” said Arts OutWest executive director Kylie Shead.
BLAKView will support Aboriginal and regional NSW artists and arts workers from the Outback Arts, Arts North West & Arts OutWest regional arts development regions to develop skills in critical writing in the arts.
Delivered through a hybrid model, BLAKView combines a 3-day face-to-face intensive in Orange with online workshops and mentorship.
Through BLAKView, participants will:
- Develop skills in review writing and critical analysis.
- Engage with exhibitions and artistic work through a critical lens.
- Build confidence in articulating cultural and creative perspectives.
- Explore pathways to publication and paid writing opportunities.
Participants will be supported by Dr Suzie Gibson, Senior Lecturer in English at Charles Sturt University.
The program is open to Aboriginal artists and arts workers, with priority given to Aboriginal participants, as well as emerging and established creatives from the Arts North West, Outback Arts and Arts OutWest regions. It is also suitable for anyone interested in writing about arts, culture and creative practice.
Applications are strongly encouraged from people who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD), living with disability, and LGBTQ+. No prior professional writing experience is required.
Online workshops will be held throughout August, September and October, culminating in the Orange intensive in October.
BLAKView is delivered by the Aboriginal Regional Arts Alliance and supported by Outback Arts, Arts North West and Arts OutWest. Funded by the Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund.
Applications are open now, and the first workshop is 25 August 2026.
For more information and to register, visit: https://www.araansw.com/projects/blak-view
For more information, talk to Arts OutWest on 02 6338 4657.
