AWITA X artnet Survey

2025-2026

Women continue to enter this sector with talent, energy and aspiration. Yet too many find themselves navigating systems that rely on invisible labour, administrative overload and work that remains undervalued. The AWITA x artnet Hardwiring Change surveys establish a data-driven framework examining the realities shaping women’s careers across the arts sector. 

The 2026 edition, Hardwiring Change: Buying Back Time, revealed women are considering leaving their careers at higher rates due to structural pressures around time, pay and caregiving demands. The findings point to a clear set of demands for systemic change.

Data is our strongest tool for equity.

Contact Valentina at specialprojects@awita.london with any questions.

Read artnet editorial here

Artnet X AWITA Survey 2026 Presentation

Elaine Bedell, CEO Southbank Centre
Rosanna Cundall, Partner & Consultant at Saxton Bampfylde
Touria El Glaoui, Founder of 1-54
Ese Jade Onojeruo, Associate Curator, British Pavillion Venice Biennale 2026
Alexandra Steinacker-Clark, Writer and Founder of All About Podcast

Moderated by Margaret Carrigan, News Editor, Europe, Artnet.

The results from our 2026 survey are free to view and share. Enter your details below to download the short report.

The inaugural 2025 survey Hardwiring Change for Women in the Arts Workplace identified that women in the art world still face significant barriers, with pay inequity, work-life balance, and lack of mentorship emerging as top concerns.

Artnet X AWITA Survey 2025 Presentation

Margaret Carrigan, News Editor, Artnet
Sadie Coles, Founder and Director, Sadie Coles Gallery
India Phillips, Managing Director, Bonhams
Naomi Rea, Editor-in-Chief, Artnet
Clarrie Wallis, Director, Turner Contemporary


Read the Artnet Editorial

The results from our 2025 survey are free to view. Enter your details below to download the short report.