The ratification of the Antarctic Treaty established a unique construct for human presence and activity in Antarctica. The designation of the continent for peace and science has inspired and informed the work of artists from across the world. This paper explores relationships between the Treaty and contemporary visual artists’ responses to Antarctica. Using data from interviews with scientists, cultural professionals and exhibition audiences, I explore the value to science and society of artists’ presence in Antarctica. I look at why in the last 2 years the number of artists being supported to work in Antarctica has declined and conclude with some observations on how this downward trend might be addressed.

中文翻译：

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不断变化的文化氛围：实现在南极工作的艺术家的价值

《南极条约》的批准为人类在南极洲的存在和活动建立了独特的结构。被指定为和平与科学的大陆激发并启发了来自世界各地的艺术家的作品。本文探讨了《条约》与当代视觉艺术家对南极洲的反应之间的关系。利用对科学家、文化专业人士和展览观众的采访数据，我探讨了艺术家在南极洲的存在对科学和社会的价值。我研究了为什么在过去 2 年中，支持在南极工作的艺术家人数有所下降，并总结了一些关于如何解决这种下降趋势的看法。