The Rising Tide of Emotional Safety in the Arts: A New Standard for Creative Collaboration?
A recent dispute in Latvia’s Dailes Theatre, involving light artist Jūlija Bondarenko and artistic director Viesturs Kairišs, has sparked a crucial conversation about workplace culture within the creative industries. Bondarenko publicly accused Kairišs of emotional abuse and unprofessional conduct during rehearsals for a Christmas concert, prompting a complaint to the Culture Ministry. This isn’t an isolated incident; it’s a symptom of a broader reckoning occurring across artistic fields globally.
The Power Dynamics at Play
The core of the issue, as highlighted by Bondarenko, isn’t simply about artistic criticism, but how that criticism is delivered. Public shaming, particularly from those in positions of authority, can be deeply damaging to an artist’s confidence and well-being. This dynamic is particularly potent in the arts, where subjective judgment is inherent, and the line between constructive feedback and personal attack can be blurred. A 2022 study by the Freelancers Union found that 36% of freelance creatives reported experiencing harassment or bullying in the workplace, often stemming from power imbalances.
Historically, a certain level of “tough love” was often accepted – even romanticized – within creative environments. The myth of the tortured artist, fueled by demanding mentors and harsh critiques, perpetuated a culture where emotional vulnerability was seen as weakness. However, this paradigm is rapidly shifting. The rise of mental health awareness and a growing emphasis on psychological safety are challenging these outdated norms.
Beyond the Theatre: A Cross-Industry Trend
The demand for respectful communication isn’t limited to theatre. Similar concerns are surfacing in film, music, and even the tech-driven world of game development. The #MeToo movement, while initially focused on sexual harassment, broadened the conversation to encompass all forms of workplace abuse, including emotional and psychological harm.
Consider the case of several high-profile film directors who have faced accusations of creating toxic work environments. These allegations, often involving verbal abuse and intimidation, have led to career setbacks and a renewed focus on ethical leadership in the industry. Companies like Pixar have proactively implemented “Braintrust” meetings – peer review sessions designed to offer constructive criticism in a safe and supportive environment – demonstrating a commitment to fostering psychological safety.
The Role of Leadership and Communication
Viesturs Kairišs defended his actions as a necessary “surgical” intervention to save the concert, emphasizing the pressure of a sold-out performance. While time constraints and quality control are legitimate concerns, they don’t excuse disrespectful behavior. Effective leadership requires the ability to deliver difficult feedback with empathy and professionalism.
Pro Tip: When delivering critical feedback, focus on the work itself, not the person. Use “I” statements (“I’m concerned that…”) rather than accusatory “you” statements (“You did this wrong…”). Always offer specific examples and suggest potential solutions.
The shift towards more compassionate leadership styles is also driven by a changing workforce. Millennials and Gen Z, who now comprise a significant portion of the creative workforce, prioritize work-life balance, mental well-being, and a sense of purpose. They are less likely to tolerate abusive or exploitative work environments.
The Legal Landscape and Future Protections
While legal protections for emotional abuse in the workplace are still evolving, there’s a growing trend towards recognizing psychological harm as a legitimate form of workplace injury. Several countries are beginning to introduce legislation that specifically addresses workplace bullying and harassment, including provisions for emotional distress.
In the US, while there isn’t a federal law specifically prohibiting workplace bullying, victims may be able to pursue legal action under existing laws related to discrimination, harassment, or intentional infliction of emotional distress. The increasing awareness of these issues is likely to lead to more robust legal frameworks in the future.
The Impact on Creativity and Innovation
Creating a psychologically safe environment isn’t just about being “nice”; it’s about fostering creativity and innovation. When artists feel safe to take risks, experiment, and express themselves without fear of judgment or retribution, they are more likely to produce their best work. Research consistently shows that teams with high levels of psychological safety are more innovative and perform better.
Did you know? Google’s Project Aristotle, a multi-year study of team performance, identified psychological safety as the single most important factor in creating high-performing teams.
FAQ
Q: What is emotional abuse in the workplace?
A: Emotional abuse involves behaviors that undermine an individual’s self-worth, dignity, or psychological well-being. This can include public shaming, intimidation, threats, and constant criticism.
Q: Is it possible to provide constructive criticism without being abusive?
A: Absolutely. Constructive criticism focuses on the work, is specific, and offers solutions. It’s delivered with respect and empathy.
Q: What can I do if I’m experiencing emotional abuse at work?
A: Document the incidents, report them to HR or a supervisor, and seek support from trusted colleagues, friends, or a therapist.
Q: How can leaders create a more psychologically safe work environment?
A: Leaders can promote open communication, actively listen to their team members, encourage feedback, and model respectful behavior.
The case at Dailes Theatre serves as a powerful reminder that the pursuit of artistic excellence should never come at the expense of human dignity. As the creative industries continue to evolve, prioritizing emotional safety will be essential for attracting and retaining talent, fostering innovation, and building a more sustainable and equitable future.
Want to learn more about creating a positive workplace culture? Read this article from BetterUp on psychological safety in the workplace.
What are your thoughts on this issue? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below!
