Peer Assessment—which is predicated on the notion that artists and arts professionals are the most qualified individuals to assess, adjudicate and make recommendations on the work of other artists—is a fundamental principle of the Nelson and District Arts Council.
Committee review panel members are selected to ensure balanced and equitable representation of artistic practices and specializations, as well as genders, generations, persons of colour, Indigenous people, Black people, persons who are Deaf or have disabilities and individuals who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+. The goal is to engage highly qualified assessors who collectively reflect the multiplicity of experiences, perspectives and communities that make up Nelson’s diverse arts sector and population.
The Council has adopted the following equity measures to achieve equitable representation and reduce barriers to its peer assessment processes for all equity groups whenever possible:
- The Nelson and District Arts Council aims to ensure 50% (or more) of the members of its mural festival selection committee are persons of colour, Black or Indigenous peoples.
- The Nelson and District Arts Council further aims to ensure that there is at least one Indigenous artist on each artist selection committee.