Chris Warburton Hulme expressed her shock upon discovering that U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent imposition of 50 percent tariffs on nearly $28 billion worth of Canadian imports also affected original artwork.
The mixed-media artist from Eastern Passage, Nova Scotia, found this decision unacceptable. Even though approximately half of her clientele is American, she has decided to cease shipping her creations to the United States.
“I’m sorry, but I will no longer be sending anything to the U.S. It’s staying in Canada,” Hulme declared.
“This is original artwork. It embodies free speech and freedom of expression. Imposing tariffs on it restricts what artists should freely create.”
The newly introduced tariffs encompass various forms of Canadian art, such as paintings, drawings, collages, decorative plaques, engravings, prints, sculptures, and more.
Although the Canadian government announced dollar-for-dollar counter-tariffs on U.S. imports set to take effect on September 8, these retaliatory measures do not extend to original art.
One of Hulme’s latest pieces featuring the iconic pro-Canadian phrase, ‘Elbows Up!’ (Celina Aalders/CBC)
Cole Harbour artist Miranda Jordan has also stopped all sales to the United States.
Since the onset of the trade conflict, she has found it increasingly difficult to manage the shifting regulations and shipping limitations.
“I’m not a U.S. government employee, and I don’t want to act as an unpaid customs agent for them, so I’ve decided to stop,” she explained.
Miranda Jordan paints on repurposed bottles and glassware to create accent lamps. She sells her products online, which has been her full-time gig for years. (David Laughlin/CBC)
“I would prefer to create designs that appeal to Canadians and sell exclusively to them.”
Journalist and former CBC Radio host Tod Maffin expressed his desire to leverage his substantial social media following to assist small businesses affected by the new tariffs.
He and his wife established an online directory where local products can be featured, allowing consumers to discover items made in their community.
Ottawa-based visual artist Michael Harrington says he cancelled an upcoming exhibition in Boston after learning the Trump administration had implemented a 50 percent tariff on Canadian art.
Maffin noted that while the federal government has been providing financial assistance to larger industries, he is concerned that small businesses might be overlooked.
“This often leaves out the smaller components of our economy — the small businesses, home-based enterprises, and hobby businesses — which may not employ five or more people but are crucial for supporting families,” Maffin stated.
“I believe that is equally significant.”
Some of Jordan’s hand-painted lamps, including one adorned with a maple leaf. (David Laughlin/CBC)
CARFAC National, a non-profit organization advocating for professional artists in Canada, asserted that artists should not be an afterthought in the nation’s approach to the trade conflict.
“Canadian artists are independent workers and entrepreneurs,” remarked interim executive director Jenna Faye. “Unlike large corporations, individual artists lack the financial means to absorb the additional costs brought on by these tariffs.”
Focusing on Canadian consumers
Although the recent tariffs have already created obstacles for their businesses, Hulme and Jordan are adjusting their strategies and focusing on attracting Canadian customers.
“I know that people want to support their local creative community,” remarked Hulme. “While they might not be able to afford a $300 artwork, they could purchase a $10 greeting card.”
Hulme is planning to participate in more craft fairs to showcase her work to local audiences, in addition to launching a series of paintings inspired by groundbreaking Canadian women.
Jordan expressed her hope that individuals will make a dedicated effort to buy local and connect with Canadian creators whenever possible.
“Of course, we can’t all rush out and spend all our money on art before covering our rent, mortgages, or groceries. However, I believe art truly adds vibrancy to life,” she stated.
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