Within public debate around free speech and its limits there has long been a view that artistic expression deserves especially rigorous protection. This is because it is a medium of indirect communication, open to multiple interpretations. There is a long tradition of art being used to critique society and politics.
Artists themselves are aware of the robust protection they require in order to produce their works. Many feel a responsibility to use their work and their platforms to raise awareness of voices and perspectives outside the mainstream. Writers and artists often critique their societies and seek to provoke.
This issue has again arisen, following the recent decision by Creative Australia to rescind the contract of artist Khaled Sabsabi and curator Michael D'Agostino, after the funding body had chosen Sabsabi to represent Australia at the 2026 Venice Biennale.
