Half a dozen pieces over three decades mark the progress of artists'resale royalty right legislation in Europe, California and the UK. Acampaign by artists lobbying for the introduction of this economicright in the UK was formally launched in 1993, and in 1996 the EUCommission proposed and then adopted (in 2001) a Directive (legalrequirement) that all Member States introduce this right into theirdomestic laws by 2006. Artist Resale Right finally became law in the UKon 14 February 2006.

The resale royalty right will give artists the legal right toreceive a small share of the profits made on the second and subsequentsales of their works, during their lives and for 70 years after death.The UK Parliament will legislate to give living artists this right by2006 and, by 2012, the right will be given to the estates of artistswho have died within the previous 70 years.

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