For those of you who are outside of Canada, and thinking about whether you should enter or not, and whether it will cost you to send work to Canada, remember this: That it all depends on the Harmonized Code you send your work under and the description of your package. All costs coming in to Canada are yours, so it really benefits you to label your package properly. It can be done very easily.
Always ensure it is clear to Customs that the work is being submitted for an art show, that the work is not sold, that the work is on consignment. It would be extremely helpful for you if you contacted the broker for your shipping company – ie if it is Fedex or UPS etc. Tell them what you are doing, and ask them what to put on your package.
More information on the harmonized code for art coming through customs can be found here: http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/trade-commerce/tariff-tarif/2012/01-99/ch97-2012-eng.pdf
For more information or broader categories, please see the Canada Customs Agency webpage.
Julia Trops
Julia Trops has sold over 1000 artworks internationally since 2004. Retaining the discipline, work ethic and integrity from her 12 year career in the military, this decorated artist maintains a studio in the Rotary Centre for the Arts with three other local artists. Julia is one of the original organizers of the Okanagan Erotic Art Show and has carried on the event on her own since 2009. Julia Trops is representing by Gallery Odin at Silver Star Ski Resort and at Creatio Gallery at Ex Nihilo Vineyards.
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