LARSEN | KEYS – writer | rabble-rouser

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Looking for allies for arts governance

From the start of 2023, I began reducing my client workload in order to write – with a focus on my debut poetry collection (Public. Open. Space, Fremantle Press), the second edition of The Relationship is the Project and my independent research into rethinking arts, cultural and for-purpose governance – which will remain my focus in 2026 as I hope to publish a book-length manuscript.

If my work or writing has been of value to you, I’d appreciate you joining me as an advocate, ally or accomplice from just $2.50/month on Patreon).

And another thing: issues with appointed boards

My first ‘and another thing’ vlog for the year is inspired by the Adelaide Festival and the need to talk about Ministerially-appointed boards.

My 2025 reading year

I am a self-confessed book nerd and reading evangelist with very few other hobbies. So no-one is surprised that I set annual reading estimates for myself that I track, analyse and report against – not just to keep myself accountable, but to also share the joy and gratitude I find in other people’s spoken, printed and digital words.

Which is how I know that I read 186 books in 2025 – encompassing three different reading challenges and a range of other ambitions and interests.

And another thing: self-care isn’t (always) selfish

As much of our sector prepares for an end-of-year-break, I wanted to share the end of year public service announcement that: self-care isn’t selfish, taking time off isn’t selfish, rest isn’t selfish. In fact, doing #LessIsNecessary.

And another thing: should board members get paid?

This month’s ‘and another thing’ vlog’ is on the tricky issue of board remuneration – or whether board or committee members are or should get paid for their role governing arts, cultural and for-purpose organisations.

Writers festival reflections

Any day I get paid be a writer is a good day. So I was delighted to book four writers festival events for the 2025 season – which I am now half-way through.

And another thing: strategic venting and collegiality as care

Inspired by SACSA’s workforce Plan Updates for the Australian Arts sector, I’ve been thinking about the importance of strategic venting and collegiality as care – two common-sense strategies we’ve all seemed to lose the knack of in recent years.

And another thing: low bar for board diversity

My latest rant bemoans our low expectations when it comes to board diversity.

Have your say on the Productivity Commission report on copyright and AI

The Productivity Commission is looking for feedback on its interim report on harnessing data and digital technology.

The report includes recommendations for a text and data mining (TDM) exception to Australia’s Copyright Act, which would allow the AI industry to use writers and artists’ work without consent or compensation to train their Large Language Models (LLMs) – with potentially devastating effects for Australia’s creators and creative industries.

And another thing: illegal online board meetings

Thanks to the pandemic, we are all very familiar with board meetings that take place partly or entirely online. Doing so is a great way to make meetings more accessible or to expand your pool of potential board members.

But did you know that many organisations that hold online meetings are technically breaking the law?

Take on Board podcast on the ethics of AI

The AI train has left the station, but boards and organisations should take a breath before jumping on board.

It’s not just about a lack of tech know-how; it’s about staying true to your organisation’s purpose and values.