Copyright issues inspired the creation of Canadian Artists Representation/le front des artistes canadiens (CARFAC) back in 1968 when a group of artists, headed by Jack Chambers, Tony Urquhart and Kim Ondaatje organized themselves collectively to demand the right of artists to be paid for their work.  Our organization has grown into the national voice of Canada‘s professional visual artists with provincial affiliates across the country. While copyright remains a pillar of CARFAC, the artist run, nonprofit association’s mandate is to raise the socio-economic profile of artists in Canada through advocacy and professional development. Our schedule of artists’ fees is widely recognized as the national standard. The Status of the Artist Act empowers CARFAC to negotiate with national organizations on behalf of all visual artists in Canada. Part trade union, part advocacy group, part educational resource, CARFAC’s guiding philosophy is captured in founder Jack Chamber’s quote:

“No one is more qualified to speak on behalf of artists than artists themselves.”

 If you've ever been paid an artist's fee for exhibiting your work in public galleries, you've already benefited from the work of CARFAC.  If you feel that you cannot fight for progressive changes in taxation, copyright or resale right issues, or advocate for a provincial arts policy alone, believe that your membership in CARFAC does just that.   Joining CARFAC is one political act you can do to make a difference for all your fellow artists.  Check out our website to see what other benefits your membership provides.

CARFAC BC was incorporated in 1990 and our primary goals are to advocate for visual artists in BC and to provide information that may assist in their ability to flourish. BC Members automatically enjoy the benefits of membership in CARFAC National. CARFAC is guided by active National and Provincial Boards all elected by the membership.