A.I.R. New York Membership 

In 1972, a collective of twenty women artists founded A.I.R. Gallery, the longest-running alternative exhibition space for women artists in the United States. Today, A.I.R. continues to be artist-directed and its New York Members serve as the organization’s Board of Directors, sustaining A.I.R. through monthly volunteer work on board committees and financial support in the form of membership dues. Members benefit from a supportive, intergenerational feminist community that encourages creative risk-taking and mutual empowerment and provides the opportunity to contribute to A.I.R.’s mission and programming. 

A.I.R. is currently accepting applications for New York Membership. Submissions will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all spots are filled.

Each New York Member presents a solo exhibition at A.I.R. every 3 years, maintains an artist page on A.I.R.’s website, and benefits from a membership network of mutual care and support. Members attend regular board and committee meetings, donating at least 10 hours of their time to the organization each month. Financial responsibilities include a one-time $500 initiation fee and $300 monthly membership dues. A.I.R. does not place any restrictions on a member’s affiliation with other nonprofit organizations or with commercial galleries.

In order to expand access to New York Membership, A.I.R. also offers a limited number of shared memberships. These pairs of New York Members share two aspects of membership: together they present a two-person exhibition at A.I.R. every 3 years (in lieu of a solo exhibition), and each artist contributes $150 in monthly membership dues ($300 total). Those interested in applying for a shared membership should note this in their application and may designate an individual with whom they wish to share their membership (both applicants must submit separate applications). If an applicant expresses interest in a shared membership but does not designate a specific partner, A.I.R. will pair them with another applicant, contingent on interest and availability.

MEMBER RESPONSIBILITIES

Attend 2–3 meetings per month, including monthly membership and committee meetings (each member serves on one committee).

Actively participate in A.I.R.’s activities, acting as an ambassador for the organization’s mission and programs.

One-time $500 initiation fee and $300 monthly membership dues ($250 initiation fee and $150 monthly membership dues per individual for shared memberships).

ELIGIBILITY

All women and non-binary artists above the age of 18 who live in New York City are invited to submit an application. A.I.R. seeks a diversity of disciplines, media, interests, and backgrounds. Applicants with skills or experience relevant to organizational stewardship and nonprofit arts work are especially encouraged to apply.

SELECTION PROCESS

Current New York Members review an applicant based first on the quality and maturity of their work and second on their commitment to A.I.R.’s mission and relevant skills and/or experience.

After the current New York Members conduct a preliminary review of the applications, applicants will be notified of their status and studio visits will be scheduled with selected applicants. After the studio visit, finalists will meet with A.I.R.'s Executive Director and Board President for an interview.