SBS last week announced its agreement with FOXTEL and AUSTAR to launch a new 24-hour channel focused on arts on the FOXTEL and AUSTAR platforms.
The new arts channel will showcase the best of Australian and international arts, culture and entertainment across a diverse range of genres including performing arts, cinema, books, opera and ballet, music, Indigenous art and art and design.
Bruce Meagher, Director Strategy & Communication, when talking to Neos Kosmos English Edition (NKEE) said, “We will showcase the best of Australian and international arts.”
SBS will harness its expertise in sourcing local and international content
Mr Meagher detailed that, “a focus on the local scene, where audiences will have a chance to see and find out more about what is happening in art galleries, theatres and the like”, as well as international content, “be it documentaries, performances or special events – showcasing the best of local and international.”
He said that FOXTEL and AUSTAR approached SBS and expressed interest in developing a new channel.
“We then put a proposal to them, they liked it and we went on from that,” said Mr Meagher.
When asked how what the critical difference between SBS’ and ABC’s arts coverage Mr Meagher emphasised SBS’ role as “an advocate for the arts for a very long time”, he added, “what makes this unique is that it will be a dedicated 24 hour arts channel.”
He went on to underscore the channel’s focus on looking to form “very active partnerships with arts organisations around Australia.”
“It is less about just broadcasting and more about and more about interaction with audience and communities.”
Mr Meagher noted.
When asked by NKEE if there will be attention given to multiculturalism and the arts, Mr Meagher said, “We intend both in an Australian context, and as we look around the world, to reflect the diversity of the arts community.”
The new SBS Arts Channel is scheduled to begin in April 2010.