FAQ
How Do i join?
New member enrollment happens four times a year on the 1st-15th in April, August, and December. Signature Membership (upgrade) application is only in April. Sometimes special enrolment may happen at events but, that are limited and not guaranteed at each event. To remain a member you must pay dues yearly.
Make sure to stay up to date with enrollment and other announcements by signing up for our newsletter and join our waitlist.
Make sure to stay up to date with enrollment and other announcements by signing up for our newsletter and join our waitlist.
What are the benefits of becoming a member?
When you join CGA™ you become a part of a thriving and supportive community, dedicated to supporting you and promoting female western artists. In addition to our community, membership comes with several perk and benefits.
All Members (Not juried)
⭐️ CGA's "Call for Art Calendar." This calendar features dates for art shows, exhibits, and sales; along with reminders about deadlines to apply!
⭐️ Members only Career Growth meetups
⭐️ Our continually growing, member's only resource pages
⭐️ Receive discounts on workshops, digital downloads, coaching, and many of CGA's calls for art..
⭐️ Bonus opportunities for joining podcast interviews and meetings with professionals.
⭐️ Playback opportunities for past meetings and podcast bonus material, and more!
Signature Membership, which is juried, comes with additional benefits. (See next FAQ)
CGA’s membership is a bit different than what people are used to because our mission, “to increase opportunities representation of female western artists,” is at the forefront of what we do. When you become a part of CGA you are supporting that important mission.
All Members (Not juried)
⭐️ CGA's "Call for Art Calendar." This calendar features dates for art shows, exhibits, and sales; along with reminders about deadlines to apply!
⭐️ Members only Career Growth meetups
⭐️ Our continually growing, member's only resource pages
⭐️ Receive discounts on workshops, digital downloads, coaching, and many of CGA's calls for art..
⭐️ Bonus opportunities for joining podcast interviews and meetings with professionals.
⭐️ Playback opportunities for past meetings and podcast bonus material, and more!
Signature Membership, which is juried, comes with additional benefits. (See next FAQ)
CGA’s membership is a bit different than what people are used to because our mission, “to increase opportunities representation of female western artists,” is at the forefront of what we do. When you become a part of CGA you are supporting that important mission.
What is the difference between Basic and Signature Membership?
Basic Membership is required for all members. This means you have paid your yearly dues, and submitted applicable paperwork. All members get access to our private members only community and resources. Education is a huge part of our mission. In order to reach our education goals, and help artist of all levels, we do not limit the number of basic level members, and the basic level membership is not juried. We believe that we increase opportunities and representation of cowgirl artists when we help them with their business at the ground level.
Signature Membership is an add on to basic membership. Becoming a Signature Member is a high honor and not easily attained. Signature Members are members who have exhibited a high degree of professionalism and skill. They have presented their work and Signature application to the jury and the jury has unanimously accept them at this level. Signature Membership is not guaranteed and the process is stringent. Many Signature Members applied multiple times before getting in. This is a membership level to strive for, not something that is given easily. Your application needs to be impeccable as errors or lack of professionalism on any portion of your application can result in denial of your application.
Signature Members get access to additional opportunities such as:
⭐️ Honor associated with this level membership.
⭐️ Right to use CGA with your signature on your artwork.
⭐️ Named on our public Members pages with images of work and links to your website and instagram.
⭐️ Profiled on our social media pages.
⭐️ Special advertising opportunities for events and publications.
Signature Membership is an add on to basic membership. Becoming a Signature Member is a high honor and not easily attained. Signature Members are members who have exhibited a high degree of professionalism and skill. They have presented their work and Signature application to the jury and the jury has unanimously accept them at this level. Signature Membership is not guaranteed and the process is stringent. Many Signature Members applied multiple times before getting in. This is a membership level to strive for, not something that is given easily. Your application needs to be impeccable as errors or lack of professionalism on any portion of your application can result in denial of your application.
Signature Members get access to additional opportunities such as:
⭐️ Honor associated with this level membership.
⭐️ Right to use CGA with your signature on your artwork.
⭐️ Named on our public Members pages with images of work and links to your website and instagram.
⭐️ Profiled on our social media pages.
⭐️ Special advertising opportunities for events and publications.
What is the application and jury process for Signature Membership?
Artists hoping to become Signature Members must submit 5 pieces of work created within the last 5 years. The work does not need to be available for sale, but should be indicative of the artist's current style. Artist will also submit documentation showing their professional and exhibit history, along with an artist statement.
Getting juried in as a Signature Member is a very high honor in CGA. It is a rigorous process. We expect the highest level of professionalism when submitting your application. We understand that tech issues happen, but artists who wait until the last minute to submit their application may not have access to tech help. We do not recommend that new artists apply for Signature Membership, unless you are just practicing or seeking feedback (which is often given, though not guaranteed). Without a professional history it is unlikely you will be accepted at this level.
Many Signature Members have applied multiple times before getting accepted. Your application needs to be impeccable, as errors or lack of professionalism in any portion can prevent you from being accepted. It is further recommended that you take a look at the work of current Signature Members to see the level and type of work that is being accepted.
Jury process and evaluation:
Applications are reviewed by a jury of board members and jury committee members. Artwork submitted will be evaluated on its first impression, composition, style, technique, craftsmanship, and cohesiveness as a body of work. Further, traditional and realist work will be evaluated on accuracy of representation. Contemporary work will be evaluated on appearance of purposeful decision-making in composition and color choice. Jurors will also take into account professionalism of documentation provided, presentation of work (see below), and whether or not the artist followed submission instructions. Remember, Signature Membership is a selective professional distinction. Approach your application with care and thoughtfulness.
Images should be clear, sharp, and well-lit. Submissions of 2-dimensional work should be of the work only. (Do not submit photos of the work displayed on a wall or with decorative background. Do not submit images of works behind glass. Do not submit images of works with the frame, unless the frame is a part of the piece itself. Do not submit photos of works in progress. You should submit what you would sent to a printer for a reproduction.) Artists working in 3 dimensional media should photograph their work in a professional manner. Backgrounds should not be distracting. Think about how can you show off you work in the best way. Artists submitting 3-dimensional work may be asked to submit additional photos, upon review.
Artists may be asked for additional documentation or information should the jury require it to make an informed decision.
Announcements and Feedback:
Artists who apply for Signature Membership will be notified via email within 30 days of the end of the application period.
CGA is in the business of helping artists learn and grow, so when we can, we share feedback or notes from the jury that could help you with future applications. If you are not admitted as a Signature Member and your rejection letter does not have specific feedback, it usually means that something on your application was done incorrectly or the work was not the level or type that the jury was looking for. Remember that many Signature Members applied multiple times. Take this time to continue developing your work or fine tune your application. Just because you don't get in the first time doesn't mean you shouldn't try again. Signature Member is something to strive for.
Getting juried in as a Signature Member is a very high honor in CGA. It is a rigorous process. We expect the highest level of professionalism when submitting your application. We understand that tech issues happen, but artists who wait until the last minute to submit their application may not have access to tech help. We do not recommend that new artists apply for Signature Membership, unless you are just practicing or seeking feedback (which is often given, though not guaranteed). Without a professional history it is unlikely you will be accepted at this level.
Many Signature Members have applied multiple times before getting accepted. Your application needs to be impeccable, as errors or lack of professionalism in any portion can prevent you from being accepted. It is further recommended that you take a look at the work of current Signature Members to see the level and type of work that is being accepted.
Jury process and evaluation:
Applications are reviewed by a jury of board members and jury committee members. Artwork submitted will be evaluated on its first impression, composition, style, technique, craftsmanship, and cohesiveness as a body of work. Further, traditional and realist work will be evaluated on accuracy of representation. Contemporary work will be evaluated on appearance of purposeful decision-making in composition and color choice. Jurors will also take into account professionalism of documentation provided, presentation of work (see below), and whether or not the artist followed submission instructions. Remember, Signature Membership is a selective professional distinction. Approach your application with care and thoughtfulness.
Images should be clear, sharp, and well-lit. Submissions of 2-dimensional work should be of the work only. (Do not submit photos of the work displayed on a wall or with decorative background. Do not submit images of works behind glass. Do not submit images of works with the frame, unless the frame is a part of the piece itself. Do not submit photos of works in progress. You should submit what you would sent to a printer for a reproduction.) Artists working in 3 dimensional media should photograph their work in a professional manner. Backgrounds should not be distracting. Think about how can you show off you work in the best way. Artists submitting 3-dimensional work may be asked to submit additional photos, upon review.
Artists may be asked for additional documentation or information should the jury require it to make an informed decision.
Announcements and Feedback:
Artists who apply for Signature Membership will be notified via email within 30 days of the end of the application period.
CGA is in the business of helping artists learn and grow, so when we can, we share feedback or notes from the jury that could help you with future applications. If you are not admitted as a Signature Member and your rejection letter does not have specific feedback, it usually means that something on your application was done incorrectly or the work was not the level or type that the jury was looking for. Remember that many Signature Members applied multiple times. Take this time to continue developing your work or fine tune your application. Just because you don't get in the first time doesn't mean you shouldn't try again. Signature Member is something to strive for.
If I apply for Signature Member, but I don't get accepted do I get a refund?
No, this is an application fee. It is what allows you to have your work and application presented for the jury process. Signature Member status is not guaranteed.
Please read the previous two FAQ for additional information.
Please read the previous two FAQ for additional information.
Can I reapply for Signature Membership? Can I apply later?
Yes, you can reapply for Signature Membership. Sometimes a few minor tweaks to your application will make a significant difference in your chance of acceptance. You can apply/reapply for Signature Membership in April. Many of our Signature Members applied multiple times, took feedback, improved their application and then got in.
Your Signature Member renewal will happen each year at the time of your initial acceptance. Which means that your membership dues and Signature Dues may be at different times. If your membership lapses you will have to reapply for Signature Member, and re-entrance is not guaranteed.
Your Signature Member renewal will happen each year at the time of your initial acceptance. Which means that your membership dues and Signature Dues may be at different times. If your membership lapses you will have to reapply for Signature Member, and re-entrance is not guaranteed.
I don't live in the U.S. Can I become a Member?
Yes! We'd love for you to join us! We have several international members.
HOW MUCH IS MEMBERSHIP?
Membership dues are $120 per year. That's only $10 per month!*
Currently Signature Member Applications and renewals are an additions $25. We are currently considering some changes to our Signature Member renewal. Ample notice will be given to Signature Members before any change is made.
Currently Signature Member Applications and renewals are an additions $25. We are currently considering some changes to our Signature Member renewal. Ample notice will be given to Signature Members before any change is made.
Do I qualify as a "Cowgirl Artist?"
Cowgirl artists come in many forms. Some cowgirl artists are born into the cowgirl lifestyle, riding horses and doctoring cattle from an early age, some come into the lifestyle later on, and still others are artists who represent the cowgirl lifestyle and the places and animals she knows and loves.
Cowgirl Artists of America supports them all.
Cowgirl Artists of America supports them all.
I'm a maker (saddle making, leatherwork, jewelry, etc.) / performer can I join?
Yes! While CGA™ is geared toward fine arts, most of the resources we provide will also be helpful for makers and those in performing arts. We are continually evaluating how we can help makers of traditional western gear and jewelry and have already begun providing increased opportunities in our shows. If you want to be a part of this fantastic community we are thrilled to have you, and think you will find most our resources helpful. If you have specific questions please email us.
Is my art western enough to join?/ My work is not western, can I still join?
CGA™ was founded to support women artist working in the western genre. That genre is vast, and includes all fine art mediums, many styles, and traditional western gear and craft. The western art genre has continued to expand further and further into contemporary and expressionistic work. Additionally, many artist representing rural landscapes and animals are included in this genre. If you are certain your art is not western in nature, but you support our mission and would like to join you can do so. Many of the resources we provide will be helpful to any artist, but be aware that we only promote western art and artists/makers, and our resources are geared specifically to western art opportunities.
How does payment work? Are Dues refundable?
Your membership is due in full at time of joining. Dues enable you access to member benefits for one full year. To stay a member you will need to pay your dues each year. Dues are non-refundable. If your membership lapses you can rejoin at the next enrollment period, but please be aware that you will lose Signature Member Status if you had it before. You will need to reapply and acceptance is not guaranteed.
Do i have to reapply every year? What happens if my membership lapses?
You will need to pay your dues, and submit simplified renewal paperwork each year to keep your membership active. You do not need to reapply for Basic or Signature Membership.
If you let your membership lapse, by not paying your dues or submitting your renewal form, during the applicable enrollment period you will have to reapply. If you were a Signature Member you will need to reapply for Signature Member and go through the jury process again. Entry as a Signature Member is not guaranteed, even if you had Signature status in the past.
If you let your membership lapse, by not paying your dues or submitting your renewal form, during the applicable enrollment period you will have to reapply. If you were a Signature Member you will need to reapply for Signature Member and go through the jury process again. Entry as a Signature Member is not guaranteed, even if you had Signature status in the past.
WHAT IS A SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP
CGA™ is a social entrepreneurship.
"Social Entrepreneurship is an approach by individuals, groups, start-up companies or entrepreneurs, in which they develop, fund and implement solutions to social, cultural, or environmental issues. This concept may be applied to a wide range of organizations, which vary in size, aim, and beliefs... For-profit entrepreneurs typically measure performance using business metrics like profit, revenues and increases in stock prices. Social entrepreneurs, however, are either non-profits, or they blend for-profit goals with generating a positive 'return to society.'" (wikipedia)
"Social Entrepreneurship is an approach by individuals, groups, start-up companies or entrepreneurs, in which they develop, fund and implement solutions to social, cultural, or environmental issues. This concept may be applied to a wide range of organizations, which vary in size, aim, and beliefs... For-profit entrepreneurs typically measure performance using business metrics like profit, revenues and increases in stock prices. Social entrepreneurs, however, are either non-profits, or they blend for-profit goals with generating a positive 'return to society.'" (wikipedia)
If you have other questions or would like to share an opportunity contact us.
Please send us an email.
*CGA™ is committed to ongoing improvement and expansion. Therefore as we develop, the structure and cost of membership may change in the future. CGA™ is committed to communicating these changes openly and clearly before they happen. Our ultimate goal is to create a sustainable future for our community and our ability to provide education, resources, and promotion for Cowgirl Artist.
Please send us an email.
*CGA™ is committed to ongoing improvement and expansion. Therefore as we develop, the structure and cost of membership may change in the future. CGA™ is committed to communicating these changes openly and clearly before they happen. Our ultimate goal is to create a sustainable future for our community and our ability to provide education, resources, and promotion for Cowgirl Artist.