Cities of Refuge 1
in the form of stress, depression, anxiety or oth
er consequences of having been exposed to prolonged pressure or experiencing trauma. Psychological trauma is often a result of a shocking and painful experience that causes overwhelming feelings and so much stress that it becomes difficult to cope with. Persecution and experiencing traumatic events can bring about both physical and psychological reactions. An established available contact who specialise in handling crisis, trauma or stress can be a good support both to the artist in residence and the coordinator. It is entirely up to the artist whether or not to accept help in one form or another Receptive or not to support, it is a good idea to talk about the topic and mention possible available support, from primary healthcare or a specialist. Working in Sweden as an artist in residence The residence permit that artists in residence with the ICORN programme receive from the Swedish Migration Board gives them the right to set up and work in their own business, accept short-term project employment or temporary positions within their profession. If an artist in residence is offered employment, they must apply for a work permit regardless of whether it is within the profession related to the artist’s stay in Sweden or is outside the cultural sphere. According to the Swedish Tax Agency, an artist in residence is subject to unlimited taxation, since they are registered as residents and will be staying in Sweden for more than six months. This means that if the artist in residence receives income for their projects, such as a salary or similar compensation, the artist must pay tax in Sweden. This is paid as either F-tax or A-tax: F-tax Applies if the artist in residence has F-tax and their own company. They are responsible for paying their own tax and social security contributions. A-tax Applies if the artist in residence does not have his/her own company and wishes to receive compensation as wages for their work. This is classified as A-tax, and it is the employer who pays tax according to the applicable tax bracket along with social security contributions. In Sweden, most cultural workers represent themselves and organise their own work and invoicing. Sometimes, appearances can depend on whether a person is able to send a bill, especially when hired by small cultural organisations. If a person does not want (or has not had the 28/49