Fight for Minimum Artist’s Fees goes to Supreme Court

The fight for the fair payment of artists at the National Gallery of Canada is going to the Supreme Court of Canada.
For the last 11 years, the organizations that represent visual artists, CARFAC & RAAV, have been trying to negotiate standards for the payment of artists at the National Gallery that would be binding – similar to a minimum wage. In 2007, the gallery suddenly refused to negotiate binding minimum fees; they argue that artists have the right to be paid less if they choose. CARFAC and RAAV are continuing the legal battle to show the gallery that artists will not allow for this kind of attitude any longer.

But we can’t do it without you. Your donation of $25, $50 or whatever you can afford will help us make it clear to the gallery that artists not only have legal rights – but we are prepared to defend them. All donations of more than $10 will receive a tax receipt. Since the beginning, CARFAC has relied on the collective action of artists across Canada to bring about change. You are the backbone of our organization. As you know, half of visual artists in Canada earn less than $8000/year. The National Gallery should be a place to celebrate our artists – not whittle away their rights. Please make a contribution to the fight for minimum artist’s fees now.

Tools for success as a visual artist Are you a fantastic artist but not sure how to earn money from it? Look no further. With resources on artist’s fees, exporting, taxes, grants, copyright, insurance, marketing, and more – CARFAC has what you need! Some basic information and guidelines are available for everyone. Detailed info sheets, toolkits, services and discounts are just for members. Visit our website to learn more.