Minimum pay rates for artists have been introduced in the latest funding guidelines from Cyngor Celfyddydau Cymru (Arts Council of Wales – ACW), released this week.
The compulsory rates are based on the absolute minimum rates set by relevant unions and associations, including Equity, UK Theatre and the Musician’s Union.
“We want to make sure that you are paying yourself, and members of your project team properly,” the guidelines state.
“We won’t fund applications where you aren’t paying yourself or your co-workers at all or are only paying a low or nominal fee.”
While previous guidelines did reference minimum fees for artists, they were not explicit in stating the value of these fees, or that applications would be rejected if appropriate fees were not included. The decision was informed through ACW’s most recent National Lottery consultation and discussions with the Jerwood Foundation regarding fair pay for artists.
The document includes a breakdown of the minimum costs and a list of relevant unions and support organisations who can offer guidance on calculating pay rates.
“One thing that came out loud and clear during our consultation on the new lottery guidelines was the need to make sure that all artists and arts professionals are properly paid,” said Kath Davies, director of investment and funding services at ACW.
“If we are really serious about the eradication of privilege and ensuring that everyone can work in the arts on a sustainable basis, the minimum rates will be an important tool to help achieve real equity."
A spokesperson from Arts Council England (ACE) quoted in Arts Professional says there are currently no plans to follow ACW’s lead. ACE does expect all fees and salaries to be at least the National Living Wage, but it has not introduced any minimum rates above this amount.
The compulsory rates are based on the absolute minimum rates set by relevant unions and associations, including Equity, UK Theatre and the Musician’s Union.
“We want to make sure that you are paying yourself, and members of your project team properly,” the guidelines state.
“We won’t fund applications where you aren’t paying yourself or your co-workers at all or are only paying a low or nominal fee.”
While previous guidelines did reference minimum fees for artists, they were not explicit in stating the value of these fees, or that applications would be rejected if appropriate fees were not included. The decision was informed through ACW’s most recent National Lottery consultation and discussions with the Jerwood Foundation regarding fair pay for artists.
The document includes a breakdown of the minimum costs and a list of relevant unions and support organisations who can offer guidance on calculating pay rates.
“One thing that came out loud and clear during our consultation on the new lottery guidelines was the need to make sure that all artists and arts professionals are properly paid,” said Kath Davies, director of investment and funding services at ACW.
“If we are really serious about the eradication of privilege and ensuring that everyone can work in the arts on a sustainable basis, the minimum rates will be an important tool to help achieve real equity."
A spokesperson from Arts Council England (ACE) quoted in Arts Professional says there are currently no plans to follow ACW’s lead. ACE does expect all fees and salaries to be at least the National Living Wage, but it has not introduced any minimum rates above this amount.
