Editorial - January/February 2008

Wishing you a happy New Year as we look forward to another rewarding year.

It seems many in the visual arts aren't aware of the Australian Business Arts Foundation and its free service. This issue we explore the modus operandi of AbaF and relate the experience of artist Lynne Tinley who recently benefited from sponsorship for an exhibition with assistance from the government company. Her account of working with AbaF should encourage artists and those organising art events. There is much to gain by utilising the skills and knowledge of the business sector, an aspect traditionally lacking in the arts. I would certainly personally encourage anyone considering funding in the arts to firstly consult AbaF which can tailor a plan of action suitable to the event and attractive for potential sponsors.

We visited Urban Dingo Gallery in Fremantle, a gallery which specialises in indigenous art, yet unusually also shows non-indigenous works. Drop in for a welcome chat with Director Jennefer Hollman whose enthusiasm for Aboriginal art is infectious.

We also visited The Box Man in Kewdale. Boxes for artwork are intricately woven into the fabric of buying, selling and moving artwork, yet many artists claim a difficulty in sourcing them. Staff at The Box Man are very keen to work with artists and galleries, offering reasonable prices and delivery.

Our Book Review this issue, Arthur Boyd: A Life by Darleen Bungey is a worthy addition to any book collection. The book is literally packed with information, and is a remarkable achievement for the author who spent seven years researching the life of Arthur Boyd, one of Australia's best known artists. The book, which is now unavailable from the publishers, but still available in book stores, is a likely candidate for a reprint having only been released last November.

The Artist's Chronicle website has been under reconstruction of late. I hope you find it more user friendly.

Lyn DiCiero
Editor