Discussion: Fair Compensation in the Broader Context of the Relationship Between Artists and Institutions

In recent years, a number of Lithuanian organisations have researched fair remuneration for artists, organised public events on the subject, and published guidelines.* The topic is also addressed in the latest study published by the Lithuanian Council for Culture, ‘The Beloved / Unbeloved Artist’. This discussion, organised by the Contemporary Art Centre (CAC), offers an opportunity to consider efforts to establish fair remuneration practices from a historical perspective, reflecting on political, economic, and social conditions that continue to shape – and sometimes slow – institutional change.

Contributors to the discussion are invited to address this issue within the broader context of the relationship between artists and institutions, drawing on the ‘Memorandum of Care and Understanding’ published this year by the International Committee of Museums and Collections of Modern Art (CIMAM). Developed through research into best museum practices for working with living artists, the memorandum is available in full on the CIMAM website. While the discussion focuses primarily on the fields of performance and dance, many of the issues raised are equally relevant to visual artists and institutions more broadly.

The discussion features artist Agnė Jokšė, head of the Lithuanian Interdisciplinary Artists’ Union, and choreographer Agnija Šeiko, director of the Šeiko Dance Company. The discussion will be moderated by Virginija Januškevičiūtė, Senior Curator at the Contemporary Art Centre.

* In 2022, the Lithuanian Council for Culture conducted the study ‘Fair Remuneration for Creativity’. In 2023, the Lithuanian Interdisciplinary Artists’ Union organised a series of discussions on the same topic and published guidelines outlining minimum recommended remuneration. Around the same time, related discussions were organised by the Professional Union of Art Workers and other initiatives.

Photography and/or filming may take place at the event, so please be informed that you may be seen in photos and/or videos of the event. These photos and videos can be published on social networks or media.