Which contracts are important in the arts and culture sector?

Artists and cultural workers are therefore confronted with different types of contracts in their professional activities. 

Artists have various ways of earning money. They are often remunerated for their artistic accomplishments, for example concert performances, employment as actors, carrying out readings, or through the sale of their artwork. They can also commercially exploit the artistic works they have already created by authorising others to use these works under copyright law in return for payment (see the chapter on copyright). In addition, artists also commission external partners, such as artist agencies or artistic work intermediaries, to support them in their professional activities. 

Cultural workers are also confronted with different types of contracts, for example if they work in a publishing house and conclude licensing agreements with artists, organise exhibitions, or are employed by a cultural institution.

As you have already learnt in the subchapter on cross-border contracts and the subchapter on the applicable law, contract law varies from country to country. Regardless of the applicable law, there are certain types of contracts that you will find in most legal systems. Below you will find an overview of relevant contract types in the arts and culture sector and typical points that are regulated in these contracts.

Attention: If you are concluding  a cross-border contract, you should also refer to the information in the sub-chapter on cross-border contracts and the sub-chapter on the applicable law.