Jo Pickup
Jo Pickup's Latest Articles

Why the art adorning Sydney Opera House for Vivid this year is like no other in its history
This year’s Vivid LIVE centrepiece casts light on political history, which in some parts of the world, feels all-too present…

New arts space launches with 75-25 business model for slow burn success
As traditional arts funding models strain under cost pressures, a new kid on the block looks to chart a new…

How many open letters does it take to see top tier leadership change in the arts?
Two months on from much debated Creative Australia Board decision and, in the face of overwhelming criticism, why aren’t the…

Music and live performance sectors still in pain: what do they want from the next four years of government?
Music and live performance artists and businesses are facing persistent threats to their existence. What do they want from Australia's…

Theatre review: Shadow of Doubt, The Blue Room Theatre
A two-hander that dives inside one couple’s relationship to explore the complicated nature of abuse.

Exhibition review: de-centre re-centre, Lawrence Wilson Art Gallery
A cohesive survey exhibition that points to the strong relevance of photographic media within the wider context of contemporary art.

Council's response to gifted public artwork inquiry fails to quell artists’ disquiet
After confronting City of Perth Councillors about the installation of a controversial public art acquisition, local artists are far from…

Australian museum director offers insight into mood of US cultural sector after University of Michigan trip
As the Trump administration’s executive orders ramped up, an Australian museum director was touching down in Michigan. Their first-hand insights…

Creative Australia’s National Arts and Disability Code of Practice tender questioned by sector
A recently closed government tender process has raised some red flags for long-time contributors to the disability arts and access…

10-year look back at major performing arts festivals shows some things haven’t changed
As some prominent performing arts festivals wrap up their programs for another year, we take a reflective look back on…