In this chapter, we consider the global context of precarity for the visual arts sector—wherein artists’ incomes are consistently low and falling, commercial galleries are financially vulnerable, and public galleries, artist run initiatives and independent arts organisations face operational and programming funding challenges. We explore barriers to the economic health of the sector and obstacles to improving artists’ and arts workers’ working conditions, along with provisions that have been made in different countries around the world to address the realities of being a creative in the twenty-first century. We also consider the specific qualities of the visual arts sector in relation to broader discussions of precarity in the arts and cultural industries. Finally, this chapter establishes the methodology and approach of the book and outlines the parts that follow.