Open Letter: The True Value of Art and Why Artists Deserve Fair Compensation

I write to share some thoughts on a subject that is both dear to me and important to the growth of local cultural and economic vitality: the practice of asking artists to provide their work, time, and talents for free. While I understand that budgets can be tight and there may be a desire to promote local talent, I respectfully urge you to reconsider the request for unpaid artistic contributions and recognize the value of fairly compensating artists for their work.

The Value of Art

Art is more than just decoration. It is a reflection of a community's identity, a way to celebrate shared history, and a source of inspiration. Public murals, sculptures, live performances, and creative workshops not only beautify a community but also attract visitors, foster community pride, and stimulate local economies. The arts help create a sense of place, turning otherwise ordinary spaces into landmarks, conversation pieces, and hubs of culture.

Yet, despite the essential role artists play in enriching the community, there remains a common misunderstanding about the value of their labour. Too often, artists are asked to donate their work in exchange for "exposure" or the promise of future opportunities. While the offer may seem harmless or even mutually beneficial at first glance, it overlooks the fundamental truth that art is labour, and labour deserves compensation.

Exposure Does Not Pay the Bills

One of the most common arguments in favour of unpaid artistic work is that it offers exposure—an opportunity for artists to gain visibility, build their portfolios, and attract future clients. However, exposure is not a substitute for income. Artists, like all professionals, have real-world expenses. They spend years honing their craft through education, practice, and experience. They invest in materials, equipment, studio space, and insurance, all while balancing the same costs of living that everyone faces—rent, utilities, food, healthcare, and more.

When artists are asked to work for free, they are essentially being asked to subsidize public projects out of their own pockets. In no other field would we expect such an arrangement. We wouldn’t ask an electrician to wire a new building for exposure or expect a plumber to fix the town’s pipes for the chance to get their name out there. Artistic labour is equally valuable and deserving of compensation.

Devaluing the Profession

When communities ask artists to provide their work without compensation, it inadvertently sends the message that art is not “real work.” This devalues the profession and creates a harmful precedent, leading to a broader culture where artists are frequently underpaid or undervalued. It fosters a misconception that creativity is something easily dispensed at will, rather than the result of years of dedication, effort, and talent.

Furthermore, when artists are consistently asked to work for free, it undermines those who rely on their craft for their livelihood. This not only harms individual artists but also the creative industries as a whole, stifling opportunities for economic growth and limiting the potential for more diverse and innovative artistic contributions.

A Fair Partnership

Instead of asking artists to contribute their work for free, try a different approach: a partnership based on mutual respect and fair compensation. There are many ways to support the arts and artists while still working within budget constraints. Grants, sponsorships, crowdfunding, or even phased project approaches can all provide pathways to fund artistic contributions. Public-private partnerships can be explored to create long-lasting works that both enrich the town and fairly compensate the artists who create them.

In addition, paying artists for their work demonstrates that our town values creativity and the people behind it. It sends a message that we believe in the importance of art and are committed to fostering a thriving cultural scene that benefits everyone. When we invest in artists, we are investing in the future of the community.

Conclusion

Art is an integral part of what makes communities vibrant, dynamic, and unique. However, the true value of art can only be realized when we recognize and fairly compensate the artists who create it. Asking artists to work for free may seem like a cost-saving measure in the short term, but in the long run, it devalues the very contributions that make our town special.

If you're considering asking artists to work pro bono, I urge you to reconsider the practice of requesting unpaid work from artists and instead explore ways to compensate them fairly. Together, we can build a community where art is not only appreciated but also supported, ensuring that creativity continues to thrive for years to come.