Released on June 24, 2010
The Government of Saskatchewan is pleased to announce that The Arts Professions Act is now in effect and with it, a focus on growing and strengthening the arts sector by promoting effective business practices between artists and those who contract their services.
"Artists and the business sector have not always approached working together with the same understanding of agreements," Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Dustin Duncan said. "This legislation is designed to help increase that understanding and to strengthen their relationships."
The Arts Professions Act requires written contracts between professional artists and those who hire them or use their creative work. The Act also recognizes the artist as a professional and, as a professional, emphasizes the importance of fair compensation.
The Act was designed to respect the working conditions of artists by responding directly to what professional artists have identified as necessary to enhance their bottom line. This includes increased market access; improved business planning skills; and greater access to information that will support their careers, such as knowledge of general contracting.
"Artists and cultural workers are an integral part of a vibrant province," SaskMusic Executive Director J.P. Ellson said. "The economic and cultural impacts on Saskatchewan of the business conducted by these workers are a crucial component of a solid, diversified provincial economy. This legislation recognizes the entrepreneurial spirit of culture within Saskatchewan and we applaud the government for its insight and assistance."
The ministry worked closely with various industry associations to develop an education and awareness strategy that includes tools such as contract templates, workshops and checklists that are tailored to the needs of the different sectors. To ensure easy access to these tools an information portal has been developed and can be found on the ministry's website.
"Canadian Artists' Representation/Le Front des artistes canadiens (CARFAC) Saskatchewan supports the use of contracts," CARFAC Saskatchewan Executive Director Patrick Close said. "The contract requirement, and the recognition for professional artists found in The Arts Professions Act, will help Saskatchewan visual artists as they pursue their chosen creative professions."
"Written contracts are an effective business practice that can help solidify the relationship between an artist and those that hire them by providing a clear understanding of the transaction," Duncan said. "This provides an extra measure of protection to both parties. It also helps make business more straightforward and profitable."
The Arts Professions Act is one component of government's plan to implement the new cultural policy, Pride of Saskatchewan, with its goals of facilitating artistic excellence and expanding commercial opportunities.
Details on both can be found at www.tpcs.gov.sk.ca.
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For more information, contact:
Art Jones
Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport
Regina
Phone: 306-787-3506
Email: art.jones@gov.sk.ca