MEMBERSHIP:
UPDATE: It is our goal to launch annual memberships in summer of 2017. Please visit the "SUBSCRIBE" tab above and make sure to check "membership waitlist" to be alerted as soon as memberships "go live". We will have an application form for you to fill out when this happens- getting on the watlist is free and carries no obligation to purchase.
Membership in the Artists' Union is open to anyone who considers themselves an independent working artist or creative person. We don't split hairs about what constitutes "artist", "art" or "creativity"- as long as it is pretty clear to the average person that what you do falls within a creative career category, it's probably fine.
While we reserve the right, as an organization, to be selective in who we approve for membership, we intend to abide by our stated values by trying to be as inclusive as we can, regardless of someone's background, protected statues (race, gender, disability etc.) or beliefs. Members will be expected to abide by a set of guidelines for participation. Where the membership of any person would tend to significantly interfere with the goals and operations of Artists' Union, we will be be reviewing the situation on a case-by-case basis.
Our membership structure will fall into one of three categories:
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Artists and creative professionals- those we are helping
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Supporter- not an artist in need of assistance, but wishes to support our efforts & get a periodic newsletter and "Supporter thank-you's"
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Another organization or local business who would like to have a formal relationship with Artists' Union
We are based in Portland, Oregon (hence the "503" chapter specifier), so membership with us is aimed at fostering the careers and well-being of artists and creative people who are living and working in the Portland Metro area- but we will consider requests from other places in Oregon.
For those residing outside of Portland: Please contact us if you'd like to learn more about starting a chapter of Artists' Union in your town!
COST:
As of spring 2017, we are still working out the overall cost of memberships. We are planning on offering an ongoing membership that is renewed annually, and will be comparable to the cost of joining a similar type of organization (such as a Musicians' Union or other trade union/professional support membership)- we're aiming for the $25-$50 range.
NOTE: Volunteers who can commit to lending us 4 or more hours per month will be offered FREE annual membership! Contact us for more details at the "CONTACT" page above.
WHY MEMBERSHIP?:
Membership dues are a primary source of financial revenue for many professional or trade associations. But membership does a lot more than that.
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Ongoing memberships help build our strength and our influence as an artists' advocacy and support organization.
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You get the ability to shape the future of our Union, and the future of creative arts in Portland, Oregon through voting members to the Board of Directors, and participating in Union votes on issues of concern, campaigns, outreach to other artists, employers and businesses, and more.
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Membership, volunteering, or partnering with Artists' Union can be listed as part of your professional experience, development, and/or as a way to show your support for the arts AND the people whose works keep creative expression alive.
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Membership brings you access to a community of like-minded folks who are also working towards common goals, as well as a variety of opportunities and benefits you wouldn't have otherwise.
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Membership gives you the support, not only of the "goodies" assistance, opportunities and etc. that you receive for your membership dues, but the confidence to feel that you're a part of a growing movement that has your back: One that demands that creative artists be treated with as much respect as any other career professional. Stand with us, and you will no longer stand alone!
WHAT IT INCLUDES:
We hope to offer the following to our members (finalized list subject to change):
-Special discounts and opportunities for members when they are approved for a new account with On Point Credit Union in Portland- including cash back for signing on!
- Discounts on local goods and services (such as at local art supply stores)
-Discounted and/or free services (such as legal consultation, ways to develop your creative work and/or business, etc.)
-Access to group health insurance at lower rates
-Potential scholarship and/or emergency funds
-Opportunities to exhibit in members-only shows
-Discounted and/or free access to work space(s)
-Online profile page where you can feature your work, and connect directly with your audience
...And more to come- Check back to see periodic updates!