Associate Membership

For:

UK-based emerging or early-career textile artists (approx. 3+ years of committed practice) seeking mentorship and professional development.

Purpose:

To support and guide an emerging artist through the next stage of their career, offering financial help, mentorship, and exhibition experience for 2 years

Our aim is to make professional textile practice more accessible, creating opportunities for creative exchange and genuine connections between established and emerging artists , from all backgrounds, while strengthening and increasing the visibility of textile art.

Why Choose Associate Membership:

Perfect if you’re building your professional practice and want hands-on support, funding, and a route toward full membership.

⚠️ If you have already exhibited widely, held a solo show, are represented by a gallery, or have received significant awards or residencies, you may be more suited to Full Membership instead.

Benefits:

• £500 per year for 2 years (£1,000 total) to support with membership expenses
• Free membership for 2 years (no £50 annual fee)
• Practical Support & Mentoring
  • You’ll be paired with a 62 Group Friend — your main contact for advice, encouragement, and guidance.
  • You’ll also receive targeted mentoring from other members who can help you develop specific skills or areas of your practice.
  • Mentoring sessions (up to six per year) may take place in person or on Zoom.
  • Your first session will include goal-setting and a personalised professional development plan tailored to your ambitions.
• Opportunity to exhibit alongside full members (no fees)
• Artist profile on the 62 Group website
• Networking meetings with professional artists
• Option to apply for Full Membership after 2 years (first year free)

Selection Process

• Applications are reviewed by three 62 Group members and one invited external panellist.
• Shortlisted artists are invited to send actual piece of work for a second round of selection (the Group will contribute up to £25 towards postage/return costs).

Selection Criteria

• Demonstrates a distinctive artistic voice, ambition, and innovation in their practice.
• Has at least three years of committed textile practice, with flexibility for career or life breaks.
• Shows quality, originality, and technical expertise in their creative work.
• Can clearly explain how they would benefit from and contribute to the 62 Group of Textile Artists.

Commitment

• Active Participation: Engage fully in the two-year membership, including mentoring sessions, networking opportunities, and professional development activities.
• Exhibition Submission: Apply to participate in 62 Group exhibitions and follow the same selection process as full members.
• Reporting & Accountability: Submit annual updates on how financial support and mentoring have contributed to your practice.