Canadian Artists' Representation/Le Front des artistes canadiens (CARFAC)
Canadian Artists' Representation/Le Front des artistes canadiens (CARFAC) is a federally incorporated non-profit organization representing Canada’s professional visual artists. Founded in 1968 by artists including Jack Chambers, it advocates for artists' economic rights, fair compensation, and equitable participation in profits derived from their work[3][5].

Structure and Mandate
CARFAC operates as a registered charity (Business No. 106842388RR0001) and a National Art Service Organization with over 4,000 members nationwide[3][4]. Its mandate includes promoting visual arts, fostering socio-economic conditions conducive to artistic production, and conducting research and public education[2][5]. The organization is governed by an elected board and recognized under Canada’s Status of the Artist legislation[3][5].

Advocacy and Impact
CARFAC focuses on securing payment standards for artists, including exhibition fees, copyright protections, and royalties. It engages in lobbying, legal advocacy, and policy development to safeguard artists’ rights[2][5]. Historically, CARFAC has shaped federal and provincial arts policies, establishing precedents for professional compensation in the visual arts sector[3][5].

Affiliates
Regional affiliates, such as CARFAC British Columbia, extend its reach, ensuring localized support for artists while maintaining alignment with national objectives[5].

Historical Significance
As Canada’s oldest national visual arts service organization, CARFAC has played a critical role in legitimizing artists’ labor rights and shaping cultural policy since the late 1960s[3][5].

[1] https://www.carfac.ca [2] https://www.carfac.ca/about/ [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canadian_Artists'_Representation [4] https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/carfac-canadian-artists-representation/ [5] https://carfacbc.ca/about-carfac-bc/