‘Reference framework rates digital culture’ provides insight into fair rates for digital culture creators and artists

Digital culture makers and artists often have an interdisciplinary practice between art and technology, between performance and installation, and between researcher and technical producer. This makes this sub-sector complex and makes it difficult to get a handle on what are fair rewards for digital culture makers and artists. High time, then, to investigate what rates and working conditions apply within subsectors similar to digital culture. The Digital Culture Chain Table of Platform ACCT, for example, has had a frame of reference drawn up by research firm Social Finance Matters.

“To strengthen the income position of creators in digital culture and arrive at fair rates, it is helpful, if not necessary, to have references of what is ‘fair’ in other sectors that are similar or reminiscent in some respects of the work of creators in digital culture,” Social Finance Matters said. The reference framework provides an overview of working conditions and rates applicable for performing work and holding positions within the design, visual arts, engineering and research sub-sectors. Prior to and during the creation of the frame of reference, it was determined by the chain table participants and Social Finance Matters that these subsectors show the most affinity with digital culture.

Download the reference framework here. 

The frame of reference can be used as a guide by digital culture creators and artists when setting or negotiating rates. Clients within this sub-sector can also consult the frame of reference. In line with the frame of reference, the Digital Culture chain table will establish a zzp surcharge. Experience shows that digital culture makers and artists often incur additional structural costs for setting up and running their independent professional practice.

Curious about the progress of the chain table Digital Culture? On the website or through the newsletter of the program fairPACCT you can stay informed!