Artwork Complaint Review Process

Del Ray Artisans (DRA) believes that artistic freedom is a cornerstone of creativity and expression. While striving to maintain a respectful and inclusive community, DRA will continue to support artists in pushing boundaries, exploring diverse ideas, and inspiring meaningful dialogue.

While DRA opposes censorship and supports freedom of artistic expression, curators should carefully consider the inclusion of any content that could be perceived as exploiting or endangering social groups. Curators should consider whether the artwork advances public discourse or challenges societal norms in a constructive manner. Once artwork is hung or on display, DRA will resist external pressure to remove or alter work. Under no circumstance should gallery hosts and volunteers take unilateral action.

If/when a complaint is received at DRA, it will follow this Grievance Process in an open, transparent manner while respecting the confidentiality of the complainant.

Grievance Process

  1. Members, artists, or visitors may submit grievances about artwork in writing to the DRA President (president@delrayartisans.org) and Vice President (vp@delrayartisans.org).
    • A Complaint Review Committee (CRC) will be formed (composed of the DRA President, VP, Curating Director, and two other elected board directors) to evaluate the complaint. The grievance must include a clear, detailed description of the violation or concern.
    • The curator and the artist whose work is being reviewed will be informed and given an opportunity to respond to the concerns and provide additional context to the CRC.
    • DRA will acknowledge to the complainant receipt of the complaint and that it is being researched.
    • The complainant’s identity will remain confidential to the CRC and the Board of Directors.
  2. The CRC will review the grievance promptly, conduct any necessary investigations, and endeavor to provide resolution as soon as possible.
  3.  The art which is the subject of the complaint will remain on display until a decision is made to have it removed.
  4. The decision made by the CRC, with a written explanation including clear reasons for the outcome, will be provided to the artist and complainant.
  5. The artist may appeal the decision within seven (7) days by presenting new evidence to the DRA President and VP, who will forward the appeal to the CRC and the Board of Directors. The appeal will be reviewed by the Board of Directors, whose decision is final. The President or VP will provide a written explanation to the artist.
  6. Records of the artwork complaint and the grievance process decisions will be kept on file by the organization for 2 years.