Navigating Taxes for Artists with Kathy Chin
Building on the success of our spring sessions, the Alternator Centre for Contemporary Art is excited to launch the Fall lineup for our 2026 Artist Development Series. This ongoing series equips emerging and mid-career artists with actionable tools to build sustainable creative careers alongside regional experts. Stay tuned, as more Fall sessions will be announced soon!
Through these sessions, we aim to move beyond simple skill-building to help you build collaborative networks and gain the actionable tools needed to navigate your creative career with confidence.
Taxes don't have to be intimidating!
In this accessible two-part workshop series, tax professional and former Alternator Board Treasurer Kathy Chin breaks down the fundamentals of managing tax obligations as an artist. Designed for creators at any stage, this program requires no prior financial or tax knowledge, and all workshop materials will be provided.
Session 1: Tax Workshop for Artists (In-Person at the Gallery)
Date: Saturday, September 26, 2026
Time: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Where: The Alternator Centre for Contemporary Art
Get step-by-step guidance on organizing your financial records, reporting business income and expenses, and filling out the business schedule for your tax return. Kathy will also cover essential topics such as determining whether you need to register for GST and how to properly report donations of your artwork or services.
Session 2: Artist Tax Q&A (Online via Zoom)
Date: Saturday, October 3, 2026
Time: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Where: Online via Zoom
An informal, open discussion tackling real-life tax situations, with priority given to questions submitted in advance by participants. Whether you want to clarify points from Session 1 or get general guidance on common artist tax scenarios, this session provides a supportive environment to get answers. (Note: This session provides general information only and does not constitute formal personal tax advice.)
Note: Session 1 and Session 2 require separate registrations. You are welcome to attend either or both sessions!
What to Bring:
Session 1: A notebook or digital device for taking notes.
Session 2: A device with Zoom capability and any general questions regarding artist taxes.
Attendance & Contributions
This workshop is free to attend. However, for those with the capacity to do so, we invite you to participate in our Pay It Forward program.
Pay It Forward
We believe in building a creative community where everyone belongs. This event is open to all. For those in a position to give, we invite you to pay it forward. Your generosity keeps our doors open to everyone, creates access for all, and sustains the programs that enrich our collective cultural life. We gratefully accept contributions by cash or online here. Unable to contribute? You are always welcome here.
About the Facilitator
Kathy Chin (she/her) is a tax professional who worked in public practice until founding her own independent firm in 2025. Her client practice includes business owners, estates, non-profits, individuals navigating Indigenous taxation, and clients resolving complex matters with the Canada Revenue Agency. An Alternator alumna, Kathy previously served as the Board's Treasurer for several years. Outside of taxes, she enjoys ComiCon, rocks, cute office supplies, ice cream, wide-leg jeans, lists, and firmly believes that art represents the dreams of humanity.