The man from SGFA, he say “Yes”

A couple of months ago we wandered down to nearby Norden Farm, an arts centre with film, theatre, and galleries. An exhibition running by members of the Society of Graphic Fine Art grabbed my attention, so I did a little research, and decided to apply for membership.

The SGFA was founded in 1919 to “foster good draughtsmanship”, and refers to itself as “The Drawing Society”. On one particular day each October, any artist can apply for membership.

The process involves submitting a short portfolio of work consisting of some finished artworks and either one’s sketchbook, or a series of individual drawings or sketches. Artworks are left with the society’s panel, then collected later in the day along with their decision. (The image accompanying this post shows one of the artworks I submitted.)

Particularly since I have no formal artistic training or history (other than illustration), it appealed to me that selection was purely based on the merits of the work. So I trudged up to London today to drop off my work for their deliberation.

I’m delighted to report that my work was accepted, and once the formal process of notifying – and me paying the annual subscription – I will be an Associate member of the society.

So what?

Membership of a society such as this offers opportunity for exposure and for those of us with very limited artist CV’s, and little professional qualifications on paper, some added professional credibility over and above any artworks.

The society runs members only exhibitions through the year, so there are additional opportunities for showing work and hopefully selling it. Plus there’s the networking benefits of connecting with like minded artists.

From a personal perspective, I am delighted that my work was considered good enough for the society. This is a particularly satisfying after seeing some of the superb pieces from existing society members today at the Menier Gallery, Southwalk Street, London.

To mark the success tonight, we ordered celebratory pizza!

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