Background
In its early years, artists joined Axis by completing a self-assessment questionnaire. At the time Axis was the only ‘database’ of its kind and attracted a wide membership.
In 2005, however, selection criteria were introduced in order to reflect our role in representing new developments in artistic practice and more rigorously target audiences with an interest in contemporary art. With the proliferation of organisations promoting artists’ work on the web, it became important for Axis to define its remit more clearly.
Review process
In early December 2011 we informed all artists who joined Axis before the introduction of selection criteria in 2005 that we were embarking on this review, explaining the background and inviting anyone with comments or concerns to make contact. All artists were also given the chance to update their profile.
The review itself has been conducted with considerable care and external moderation. We realise that some long-standing members who did not meet the assessment criteria will be disappointed at the outcome, but we are pleased that more than two-thirds of artists who joined before 2005 will remain on Axis.
20/02/2012
