MediateArt

Frequently Asked Questions

  • WHAT IS MEDIATION? A voluntary, non-binding and confidential process in which disputing parties meet with experienced, impartial neutrals -- the mediators -- who help them resolve their dispute. The parties reach a mutually-satisfactory agreement, directly with each other, rather than through outside decision-makers. The mediators do not determine who is right or wrong, and have no decision-making power. Any binding agreement is crafted by the parties themselves; mediation empowers the parties to reach their own solution.
  • WHAT IS A MEDIATOR? A mediator is the facilitator of a negotiation between two parties. The mediator sets the tone, establishes productive communication, listens to the parties’ concerns, assists the parties in identifying the issues in dispute, develops potential options for resolution and provides an opportunity to reach an agreement which, as much as possible, accommodates the interests of all parties. MediateArt’s mediators have all had many hours of training focused on helping resolve arts-related disputes.
  • WHY MEDIATE? Reaching a mutually acceptable solution through mediation is much faster and far less expensive than litigation. It allows the parties to reach a solution that makes sense to and for themselves. Additionally, parties do not need to hire lawyers for mediation; it is informal; everything that occurs in the mediation is confidential; and the process of mediation is responsive to the needs of the individual parties.
  • WHO SHOULD MEDIATE? Parties who are capable of expressing themselves freely and adhering to an agreement they negotiate. Mediation is especially suitable for parties who are interested in exploring creative solutions that take into account the future and how both parties can benefit by working out an agreement. It is also extremely useful for parties in an ongoing relationship who don’t want to have that relationship soured by lengthy litigation.
  • HOW DO I INITIATE A MEDIATION? For information, please call Ben Brandow, Director of Mediation at (212) 319-ARTS, ext. 16. for a fee schedule and more information.