Artists' Union England Gains Independent Status as First Trade Union for Visual and Applied Artists
Artists' Union England, founded in 2014, has become the inaugural trade union representing visual, applied, and socially engaged artists in England. On 6 June 2016, it received a Certificate of Independence, confirming its democratic operation free from employer influence. The union advocates for fair remuneration and opposes unpaid labor, asserting that transparent payment is essential for a sustainable art world. Its committee includes Angela Kennedy from Gateshead, Hayley Hare and Martin Sundram from London, Theresa Easton and Lalya Gaye from Newcastle, Pam Foley from Oxfordshire, Vanessa Maurice-Williams from Brighton & Hove, Millicent Hawk and Alexandra Lazar from London, and Aidan Moesby from Gateshead. The union's establishment marks a significant step in professionalizing artists' labor rights.
Key facts
- Artists' Union England was launched in 2014
- It is the first trade union for visual, applied, and socially engaged artists in England
- The union received a Certificate of Independence on 6 June 2016
- This certificate proves it is free from employer influence and operates democratically
- The union advocates for fair remuneration and against unpaid labor
- It states fair payment is vital for a sustainable and vibrant art world
- The current committee includes members from various locations across England
- Committee members include Angela Kennedy, Hayley Hare, Theresa Easton, Pam Foley, Vanessa Maurice-Williams, Martin Sundram, Lalya Gaye, Millicent Hawk, Alexandra Lazar, and Aidan Moesby
Entities
Artists
- Angela Kennedy
- Hayley Hare
- Theresa Easton
- Pam Foley
- Vanessa Maurice-Williams
- Martin Sundram
- Lalya Gaye
- Millicent Hawk
- Alexandra Lazar
- Aidan Moesby
Institutions
- Artists' Union England
- Artforum
Locations
- England
- Gateshead
- London
- Newcastle
- Oxfordshire
- Brighton & Hove
- United Kingdom