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 £65 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

• Stage 1. Digital applications are reviewed by five 62 Group members and one invited external panellist.
• Stage 2. Shortlisted artists are invited to send actual pieces 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.