This code of conduct supports the mission and values that underpin Devon Artist Network and covers all member activities, including: public and member-only events, exhibitions, meetings, workshops, and online communications; and both when directly engaged in Devon Artist Network business and equally when associated with Devon Artist Network indirectly.
Working effectively with equality, diversity and inclusion is an essential part of our mission. We are committed to ensuring that there is no unjustified discrimination in the recruitment, retention, treatment, training and development of staff on the basis of age, disability, gender including transgender, HIV/AIDS status, marital status including civil partnerships, pregnancy and maternity, political opinion, race/ethnicity, religion and belief, sexual orientation, socio-economic background, spent convictions, trade union activity or membership, work pattern, having or not having dependants, or on any other grounds which are irrelevant to decision making.
We value visual art in all its forms
We believe passionately that creativity is a fundamental benefit to society
We support artists to find ways to make a living through their creative practice
We seek clarity and professionalism in all our communication
We promote mutual respect and kindness
We proactively encourage diversity, equity, inclusion and access
With a commitment to diversity, Devon Artist Network seeks to include all artists, arts workers and creative practitioners regardless of race, class, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, or national status, and any areas where these might intersect. Racism, ageism, homophobia, sexism, transphobia, biphobia, ableism or prejudice based on ethnicity, nationality, class, gender, gender presentation, language ability, asylum status, religious affiliation or atheism is neither accepted nor welcome.
Devon Artist Network aims to be accessible as possible to the widest range of people. We operate and conduct our events, meetings, discussions, business and exchanges in a safe, welcoming space both online and in real time. We make adjustments, where possible, to make these spaces more inclusive, and welcome input about how to improve this further.
Physical and emotional boundaries must be respected at all times within Devon Artist Network, including gaining explicit verbal consent before engaging in any physical contact with someone or crossing personal boundaries.
Bring with you to Devon Artist Network an awareness of the space you hold and the positions and privileges you bring, including racial, class-based and gender privilege, and remain aware of how these may affect others.
Never make assumptions on the opinions and identifications of other participants without kindly asking first and then engaging in active listening.
Make every effort in your interactions with others not to judge, look down on, or enter into competition with another.
Be aware of the language you use in discussions and exchanges; remain mindful of how this relates to others, and welcome suggestions about how to improve.
Work together to foster a spirit of mutual respect, and listen to the wisdom everyone has to share.
Give generously to each person the time and space to speak and share their thoughts and ideas. In discussions, wait your turn to speak, do not interrupt others, and be kind with your words.
Always remember: ‘Respect the person; challenge their behaviour.’
This is a living, working collection of guidelines and suggestions for improvement are always welcome.
These agreements are shared by joining Devon Artist Network and by attending Devon Artist Network events, gatherings and meetings. These agreements are also shared if you are running a Devon Artist Network event or undertaking a Devon Artist Network opportunity.
If someone violates these agreements, a discussion or mediation process can be initiated in various ways, depending on the wishes of the one who was violated:
Initial conversation between the one who was violated and a staff representative from Devon Artist Network, including a board member, who will listen actively and empathetically to the complaint and discuss with you how you would like to proceed.
Initial conversation between the person who was violated and the person who caused the violation, without initial consultation with a staff representative from Devon Artist Network, knowing that you may bring in a staff representative from Devon Artist Network if you would like to.
Initial conversation between the person who was violated, the person who caused the violation, and a staff representative from Devon Artist Network.
If a serious violation happens to the extent that someone feels unsafe, the offending party can be asked to leave the space and/or event altogether. Those present can nominate a person to mediate or initiate a mediation process if needed, and if a a staff representative from Devon Artist Network is present they will support and facilitate the process, if wanted.
Adhering to these agreements is a collective responsibility and every member is individually responsible for checking their own behaviour.
February 2023