Status of the artist act

A new accreditation is giving New Brunswick artists more employment protections.

In a press release Thursday, ArtsLink NB announced local artists can now apply for professional status, under the province’s new Status of the Artist Act, passed in 2025.

According to the organization, the designation is a way of protecting new employment rights established under the act, which recognizes the “vital role” professional artist play in society, and seeks to improve their social and economic conditions.

Accredited artists will also appear in a public database, creating a visible network of professional artists that can be used by the government, cultural sector, and the wider community.

Amy Ash, ArtsLinK NB associate director, said in the press release the accreditation is intended to “protect artists’ rights to fair wages, clear contracts, and professionalism.”

“We hope it also generates visibility, through the online database, and demonstrates that the arts are vital, art is work, and artist are valuable contributors to a vibrant and essential sector,” she added.

To be eligible to apply, artists must be current residents of the province, and have evidence of professional commitment and activity across three criteria:

• Professional Practice and Remuneration
• Training, Knowledge, and Experience
• Peer Recognition

Artist may also seek the accreditation from the L’Association acadienne des artistes professionnel.le.s du Nouveau-Brunswick Inc., and Mawi’Art: Wabanaki Artist Collective.

However, applicants are not required to be members of these organizations to apply.

Applications for the accreditation period close on June 10.