Describe the main features of the measure/initiative:
The Cyprus Visual Artists Association (EI.KA) was founded in 2006 in Nicosia by a small group of artists. Its primary mission was to provide independent/freelance artists with social welfare and to safeguard their status’ rights. The association is housed in “Phytorio”, which has become a gathering place for the association’s members and the arts community in general (currently includes a large group of independent artists and art theorists). It is regularly activated as a platform for developing new ideas and projects. Through specialised committees, its members work mainly towards three directions:
a) The legal establishment of the status of the artist and those who contribute to cultural production locally;
b) The adaptation and implementation of laws concerning art and artists, such as the 1% legislation for the enrichment of public buildings with contemporary art via open competitions;
c) The procuring of fundamental professional conditions for all artists, and especially for emerging practitioners, with the aim to create work through collective processes that will allow them to connect with the world.
During the last three months the members of the Board together with the association sub-committees have been working intensively to support the Artists of Cyprus (informal) group, working towards the approval of COVID Relief financial measures by the government. After collective efforts, a vast percentage of artists from all disciplines received financial support from the government.
The Committee of “Phytorio”, in consultation with all association of artists contributes and participates in consultations for the elaboration of the draft legislation for the status of the artist. The association also participated in the amendment of the copyright legislation regarding the resale of works of art. It is also considering a plan to offer its members the service of monitoring the resale of their works and securing their rights. It is currently considering a remuneration plan, also relevant to the rights of the artist and art theorist.
Website of the measure/initiative, if available:
What are the results achieved so far through the implementation of the measure/initiative?:
The 1% legislation for the enrichment of public buildings with contemporary art via open competitions has been implemented, following the announcement of two contests. Following the efforts of the Association and contacts with public bodies and Municipalities, more competitions will be announced shortly. The association’s sub-committee, which works for the implementation of this law, is currently examining a proposal for hosting a symposium, involving all competent bodies, artists, cultural officers and politicians, with the aim to create a platform for communication and engagement on a common ground.
To promote the status of the artist, an executive committee has been formed by representatives of the arts associations in Cyprus to study and amend the content in order to facilitate the procedures in collaboration with the Cyprus Ministry of Education, Culture, Sport and Youth. It aims at safeguarding a professional’s right for social insurance and their services’ fees, thus encouraging independent cultural professionals.