At Art Pharmacy, creative vision means more to us than just implementing art in spaces. We are committed to creating meaningful and impactful change in local communities, and making culture accessible to everyone, everywhere.
As Australia’s first Arts and Culture B-Corporation, we are committed to fostering diversity and sustainability in Australian art practices and bringing art to all communities.
OUR PILLARS
OUR APPROACH
As an Australian art consultancy working across both the public and private realm, we recognise the current challenges facing artists, clients, and communities. Our Impact Business Model addresses two key problems the arts are facing:
- Lack of meaningful arts and culture in the lives of everyday Australians
The inability for artists to maintain a steady, permanent, and reliable income - We aim to solve these problems through bespoke creative projects that bring art into the everyday under one of our pillars.
We offer a holistic, end-to-end service from conceptualisation to development and delivery of projects. This means that we work side-by-side with clients, artists and communities to implement all project phases.
We are committed to elevating diversity and sustainability throughout the process
and outcomes of our projects for all involved.
WE ARE B-CORP CERTIFIED
We are Australia’s first Arts and Culture B-Corporation, recognised for our commitment to fostering diversity and sustainability in Australian art practices and bringing art to all communities.
B Corps are businesses that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. Certified B Corporations, or B Corps, envision a better economic system where businesses can benefit people, communities, and the planet.
CREATING SOCIAL VALUE WITH ART
At Art Pharmacy, we believe in the transformative power of art in placemaking. Our mission is to foster meaningful connections between artists and communities, enhancing public spaces and creating vibrant, inclusive environments. Placemaking through art is not just about beautifying spaces; it’s about creating impactful experiences that resonate with people and foster a sense of belonging.
BENEFITS FOR ARTISTS AND COMMUNITIES
1. Economic Opportunity
Placemaking projects generate significant economic opportunities for artists and local businesses. By integrating art into public spaces, we create a platform for artists to showcase their work, attract tourism, and stimulate local economies. Vibrant, art-filled areas become destinations that draw visitors, benefiting restaurants, shops, and other local enterprises.
2. Social Cohesion and Equity
Art plays a crucial role in fostering social cohesion and promoting equity within communities. Placemaking projects bring diverse groups together, encouraging interaction and understanding. These projects often highlight and celebrate the unique cultural heritage of communities, promoting inclusivity and ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.
3. Wellbeing
Engaging with art has a profound impact on personal and community wellbeing. According to the 2022 National Arts Participation Survey, over half of Australians acknowledge the positive effects of arts and creativity on their mental health and overall wellbeing. Whether through creation or appreciation, art provides a therapeutic outlet that can significantly improve quality of life.
4. Digital Arts Engagement
The digital age has expanded the reach and impact of art, making it more accessible than ever before. Digital arts engagement has surged, with 88% of Australians engaging with the arts online in 2022. Digital platforms allow artists to connect with a global audience, share their work widely, and foster new forms of creative expression. However, there remains a unique value in experiencing art in physical spaces, where it can inspire and connect communities on a deeper level.
PUBLIC ART ACTIVATION AND THE SAFETY OF OUR FUTURE CITIES
Art Pharmacy champions the emotional impact public art can have on the rejuvenation of the urban realm and in turn the feelings of safety associated with the city. We believe in the power of art to advocate for inclusion and transform an empty street or dark alleyway into pockets of art filled joy and light for the everyday commuter. ‘What is the role of public art in creating safe, welcoming public spaces?’
CREATING VALUE: NATIONAL ARTS PARTICIPATION REVIEW
Art Pharmacy believes in collecting tangible data when reflecting on the impacts of art on Australians in their everyday lives. Creative Australia conducts a research series that explores engagement with the arts and creativity on a national level. We have included some key points from their 2022 report that provide context on how we can proceed in creating opportunities for artistic exploration and cultural participation in a meaningful and community-lead manner. Read the report here.
- Almost half of Australians created art in 2022 (44%, consistent with 45% in 2019), with young people the most likely to creatively participate of all age groups.
- Australians are increasingly engaging with the arts online (88%, up from 82% in 2019). However, almost two-thirds missed the atmosphere of a live event, exhibition and/or experience when viewing online (60%).
- The vast majority of Australians continue to agree that First Nations arts are an important part of Australia’s culture (73%) and interest has remained steady (40%). However, fewer now think First Nations arts are well-represented in Australia (47%, down from 51% in 2019).
SUCCESS STORIES
At Art Pharmacy, we partner with artists, local councils, businesses, and community groups to design and implement placemaking projects that are unique, meaningful, and impactful. Our approach is inclusive and collaborative, ensuring that the voices and visions of the community are at the forefront of every project.
