A Landmark Victory for Artists’ Rights
In a resounding affirmation of artistic contributions, the Resale Right for Visual Artists Bill has achieved unanimous approval during its third reading. This monumental step guarantees that visual artists will be justly compensated when their creations find a new home in the secondary art market.
Clear Path Forward with Enabling Regulations
In tandem with this breakthrough legislation, the accompanying regulations that underpin its execution have been solidified. This clarity not only brings assurance to artists but also outlines the intricate operation of this visionary scheme.
Aotearoa New Zealand’s Tribute to Artistic Excellence
Carmel Sepuloni, the Minister for Arts, Culture, and Heritage, elucidated the transformative nature of this legislation.
“We are constructing a scheme uniquely tailored for Aotearoa New Zealand, one that rightfully values the profound contributions our visual artists impart to our nation,” she asserted.
“A long-awaited aspiration of artists for years, this resale royalty scheme aligns us with countries across the globe that have embraced and operationalized similar endeavors. Aotearoa New Zealand is poised to stride alongside these nations, rendering overdue recognition to artists for their indelible impact on our economy and cultural landscape.”
“This transformative step will bolster the sustainability of our nation’s distinguished arts and culture scene,”
Minister Sepuloni added.
Elevating Artists’ Compensation and Cultural Landscape
The Resale Right for Visual Artists Bill holds the key to revolutionizing artists’ compensation structure. On each occasion when an eligible artist’s creation changes hands in the secondary art market, a five percent royalty will be collected – a just acknowledgment of their artistic endeavors.
Minister Sepuloni emphasized the pivotal change this brings. “Presently, every time artwork changes hands through auction or a professional art market transaction post-initial purchase, artists remain excluded from the benefits – even if the artwork has escalated in value due to their augmented reputation or prominence. It was a long-overdue shift,” she asserted.
Empowering Operative Measures
Noteworthy strides extend beyond the legislation itself. Concurrently, the Government has ratified the regulations that lay the groundwork for the practical realization of this progressive vision.
“Artworks attaining a selling price of $1,000 or above will trigger the implementation of a royalty payment,”
Minister Sepuloni clarified.
In an equitable balancing act, a percentage will be deducted as an administrative fee by the collection agency entrusted with royalty collection and distribution. International standards benchmark this fee at 20 percent of the five percent royalty.
These regulations further emphasize the role of the designated collection agency as they steer the scheme’s operation. The agency’s responsibilities span the acknowledgment and respect of Māori as tangata whenua, along with the provision of culturally appropriate support to Māori artists.
Moreover, the agency’s obligations include the establishment and management of a cultural fund. This fund, instrumental in nurturing the broader artistic community’s career longevity, underscores the comprehensive nature of this endeavor.
An Arduous Journey Culminating in Transformation
The road leading to this juncture has been paved with years of perseverance and unwavering dedication. Minister Sepuloni expressed her immense pride in this accomplishment. “Our journey has traversed years and demanded unwavering dedication and patience to crystallize into this achievement. The meticulous groundwork has laid the foundation for this significant milestone,” she exclaimed.
A Transformative Vision Becoming Reality
The profound impact of this legislation is set to resonate fully by the close of 2024. As the scheme embarks on its operational journey, it stands as an emblem of New Zealand’s commitment to elevating its artistic landscape and securing equitable compensation for its visual artists.
Sources: THX News & New Zealand Government.
