Silencing in the Arts 🤫

About

Silencing in the Arts is a research project exploring the hidden impacts of confidentiality agreements in the arts. 

It stems from widespread concerns about artists and arts workers signing NDAs without clear understanding of their rights, organizations quietly dissolving without public accountability, and the growing culture of censorship in our industry. The project examines how these issues impact personal and professional wellbeing on an individual level, and reinforce power imbalances, limit transparency, and hinder growth in the sector more broadly. Through research and advocacy, we aim to shed light on these challenges and push for meaningful change.

For more information about the project, including our research methodology and key findings to date, visit the link below.

Learn more
Silencing in the Arts is a research project that traces the extent and impact of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) on the Canadian visual arts sector. The project aims to shed light on the culture of silence that permeates the artworld, and the cycles of abuse, professional misconduct, and censorship that are perpetuated as a result.
Have you signed, or been asked to sign, a legal agreement that prevents you from speaking about your experience working with a Canadian arts organization? Please consider contributing to vital research through this anonymous survey.

Take the Survey Now!  
A Project by Aisle 4

Funded by the Canada Council for the Arts Sector Innovation & Development Program

"Shhh" drawings by anonymous artists
Website Design & Development by Studio Whyte-Gray, 2025.