A nation of rich cowards? Ben Quilty on why we need our artists
A nation of rich cowards? Ben Quilty on why we need our artists  
Podcast: Full Story
Published On: Sun Jan 25 2026
Description: After the cancellation of Adelaide writers’ week in a furore over free speech, conversations are being had about how much Australia value its writers and artists. The renowned painter Ben Quilty is asking that question in a new essay exploring how to be a more courageous country when it comes to the arts. He speaks to Reged Ahmad about the Adelaide festival, Donald Trump and why we need a society that encourages visionaries