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The urgency of a charter to make problems visible<\/h2>\n\n
\u201cThe legislation already exists, but in reality, it is still barely applied<\/em>,\u201d states Thierry Fournier unequivocally. The goal of this initiative within HACNUM is to raise awareness among professionals involved in digital arts and equip them to address these crucial issues. \u201cArtists, despite being central actors in the system, remain silent far too often. We believe that having a shared, explicit framework will shed light on these issues and encourage artists to assert their rights without fear,<\/em>\u201d he adds. The charter\u2019s first points establish a minimum fee scale\u2014essential for ensuring fairness among artists and protecting the most vulnerable. Following the initiatives of the Solidarity Economy of Art charters (for which Thierry Fournier was one of the co-initiators), the CARFAC-RAAV guidelines in Canada, W.A.G.E. in the U.S., or Paying Artists in the U.K., this project also draws on existing work in France, such as that of the collective La Buse, the ASTRE network framework, the fee charters for playwrights and children\u2019s book illustrators, and the research carried out by the Observatoire Participatif et Partag\u00e9 des Arts Visuels in Pays de la Loire. The remuneration scale clearly distinguishes artistic fees, production costs, and per diem expenses\u2014\u201celements too often merged into a single lump sum (particularly for residencies), which usually penalizes artists\u2019 fees,\u201d explains Fournier. \u201cThis charter aims to clarify these distinctions. It also stands out from earlier documents by proposing reasonable, viable rates designed to avoid social washing.\u201d The goal is to set simple minimums, with few categories and easy-to-remember amounts, making the tool accessible and practical for all stakeholders. <\/p>\n\n Another central aspect concerns exhibition conditions and inclusivity. \u201cThere are places where artists are well paid, but where the hosting conditions are poor. We also need to integrate rules that reflect an ideal of an egalitarian society\u2014especially since these venues are mostly funded with public money,\u201d observes Gromer. Fournier adds: \u201cBeyond remuneration, the goal is also to ensure fair visibility for artists\u2019 work. This includes involving them fully in developing and validating the communication around their works, in accordance with their moral rights.\u201d The overall objective is to guarantee dignified and respectful working conditions while embedding artistic practices within a framework of fairness and recognition. <\/p>\n\n Applying the charter requires gradually integrating its commitments into professional practices. \u201cThe first implementation step within HACNUM will be to stop relaying or partnering with calls for projects that do not comply with the charter,\u201d announces Gromer. Beyond this regulatory role, HACNUM is also taking on a pedagogical one, guiding its members toward better understanding and applying their commitments. \u201cThe goal is not to use stigmatizing communication, but to highlight the commitment of the signatory venues by encouraging them to explicitly endorse the charter,\u201d adds Fournier. In a context where budget cuts threaten the artistic ecosystem, this charter emerges as a crucial tool\u2014especially to ensure that any \u201cbudgetary efforts,\u201d if required, do not fall solely on artists\u2019 shoulders. \u201cHACNUM can become a laboratory for updating outdated remuneration scales and improving the well-being of artists in the cultural sector. We are also considering expanding the project and its signatories to reinitiate dialogue with the ministry,\u201d says Fournier. Recognizing artists requires fair distribution of resources and fair compensation. This charter of best practices is not merely a technical reference\u2014it stands as a genuine manifesto for placing artists back at the heart of creation. This is far from a minor detail. <\/p>\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/hacnum.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/©-David-Gallard-1024x683.jpeg\")
A work in progress with real ambition<\/h2>\n\n