Artlink was established in 1981 by Stephanie Britton as a bi-monthly newsletter, published in black and white by Art Link Incorporated.

[1] From 1986, the magazine developed national coverage, with regional editors, and from 1988 began quarterly publication, with themed issues beginning in 1989.

The first issue was guest edited by Daniel Browning and Stephanie Radok, and was also launched in London, with the assistance of the Australian High Commission.

[4] The National Library of Australia's catalogue entry gives Artlink: Australian contemporary art quarterly as an alternative title.

[5] Published by Artlink Australia, based in the Adelaide suburb of Glenside, Artlink receives support from the Australian Government via the Australia Council for the Arts and other funds, the South Australian Department of the Premier and Cabinet, and private sponsors.