The Freedom of Artistic Expression Initiative

Challenges to freedom of artistic expression, although not attracting the media attention that they did in the 1990s, continue to exert a powerful chilling effect against the creation and presentation of controversial and cutting edge artistic works. In current times, artists expressing political dissent or giving voice to marginalized cultural viewpoints are perhaps the most susceptible. The need for effective advocacy and policy research in this area is as pronounced now as it was during the heyday of the culture wars.

The First Amendment Project's Freedom of Artistic Expression Initiative provides critical support for artists and their audiences facing such challenges.

The Initiative has five primary components:

  • FAP directs civic dialogues on freedom of expression issues at museums, galleries, and community centers to advocate for artists' rights and raise awareness about current First Amendment issues in the arts.
  • FAP researches important legal aspects of cultural policy issues with the goal of publishing position papers for use by arts advocates.
  • FAP serves as public advocates for freedom of artistic expression, both responding to challenges as they arise assisting artists and presenters in advance of such incidents.
  • FAP operates the national Art Censorship Hotline (800-477-6233) , a toll-free phone line providing explanations of legal rights, advocacy advice, and references to other useful resources. This service, which was originally administered by the National Campaign for Freedom of Expression, has for over ten years served as an invaluable tool for artists caught in censorship controversies. Another valuable tool for artists facing censorship challenges is the handbook published by the National Campaign for Freedom of Expression.
  • FAP produces educational materials and seminars to educate artists, their audiences, students and the general public about freedom of artistic expression.

This work is coordinated with the National Coalition Against Censorship's national Arts Advocacy Project with whom we collaborate frequently.