The law is clear on what constitutes a worker, and what rights you then have, even if using terms such as volunteer, placement and traineeship makes matters appear complicated.

What is the essence of a Sol LeWitt wall drawing? What makes these works – which famously exist as a series of instructions, executable by anyone who owns them – authentic LeWitts and not just some lines on a wall? What distinguishes a few marks on a wall from an authentic artwork?.

Authenticity certificates were explored in last month’s column (Art Monthly 355). This month we revisit the subject in the light of further authentication disputes and debates.

Artsmart 2012 is a programme of talks and workshops designed to help artists get ahead in the creative industries.

Few people can afford to take time off work for a residency without financial support, so it’s important to budget properly for the duration.

Before getting involved in any employment, commissioning, selling or other work in any country, including the UK, it is highly advisable you ask for a contract stating your rights and what you can expect to get from your employer.

Many artists earn only a small proportion of their income directly from their art practice: but there are many different ways to finance your career.

Whether you are receiving benefits or not, it will be useful to follow this step.

Many artists and galleries find great difficulty in tracing work which has been sold, lost, lent or given away - as unlike many other art forms - Visual art usually exists in a first and final form which leaves the artist's hands forever.