Having adequate insurance protects your work, studio, equipment and materials.

An Artist's Studio

If anything gets stolen or damaged you’ll be able to replace it. Insurance also protects you if an accident occurs while working with the public.

There are two main types of insurance an artist might need:

Public liability insurance

This covers the policyholder against any claims made by third parties (e.g. members of the public). A member of the public might make a claim if they are injured during to an exhibition for example.

You’re likely to need public liability insurance if

  • If you are working freelance in gallery education
  • run your own artist-led gallery space or studio
  • Run projects involving members of the public

If you are running events in your home, your home insurance policy may cover you for some public liability insurance. It’s usually a standard inclusion on most house insurance policies. Always check with your insurer first though to make sure you’re covered for public events in your home.

Property insurance

A property insurance policy for an artist needs to cover

  • studios
  • artworks
  • works in transit

It can protect objects and buildings against theft, fire or other damage, either by people or accidentally depending on the policy.

As with any insurance policy, make sure you check to see what is covered and what is excluded. Many policies will charge an ‘excess’. This is a maximum amount you have to pay for any claim, before the insurance company will pay the rest. Remember that claims you make on a policy can increase future policy payments.

Artists’ insurance providers

In the arts, the main suppliers of affordable and tailored insurance products include: 

Make sure you get the cover than you need, rather than just going for the cheapest option. Speak to an insurance advisor if in doubt.

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