Membership | Royal Society of Sculptors

Membership

Join our creative community

The Royal Society of Sculptors champions sculpture and the artists who create it. As a member, you will join our professional network of sculptors from around the world. We support and inspire our members at all stages of their career.

Our membership gives you access to expert knowledge, advice and opportunities, expands your network and keeps you up to date. It also gives you recognition: Members and Fellows can use professional accreditation after their name, MRSS and FRSS accordingly.

The sculptor members of our Board review all applications and select new members by majority vote. There are two rounds of applications each year, in March and September.

Applications are now closed and will reopen in autumn 2019

The next selection meeting will take place in March 2020. Applicants to our September selection meeting will be notified by email by Friday 4 October 2019.

To find out when future applications are open, subscribe to our monthly Shape & Form email here

Benefits of membership

Be part of an internationally recognised organisation with professional accreditation (Member MRSS and Fellow FRSS) and members who generously share their experience, skills and knowledge.
Access member-only opportunities, including a growing number of residencies, awards, commissions and continuing professional development workshops
Discover the latest opportunities, both member-only and from across the sector, in our weekly members’ e-news
Promote your work online in our searchable directory of members’ portfolios, see Our Sculptors Portfolios including a beautiful image gallery, links to your web site and contact details
Publicise your exhibitions and events online in Our Sculptors On View
Access our online members’ area to connect with fellow sculptors - both virtually on the noticeboards and in person, via the Connect Groups which meet for studio tours and talks
Receive invitations to our private views, exhibitions, seminars and talks
Feature in the Society’s archive
Develop your practice with the support of the Society’s Fellows as part of our Mentor Scheme

Who is eligible to join?

The Society welcomes applications from professional artists who work in three dimensions as a significant part of their practice.

Successful applicants will demonstrate a high level of expertise, experience and contemporary understanding. Their work will be distinctive and contribute to the language of sculpture; whilst also demonstrating the skilled realisation of ideas. The selection panel is keen to see evidence of enquiry and reflection.

Are there different levels of membership?

In addition to the main Membership category, it is possible for Members to be nominated as a Fellow. Fellowships are awarded by the Board in recognition of outstanding reputation, experience and talent.

Up to ten early-career sculptors of outstanding talent and potential will be awarded the Gilbert Bayes Award each year. For details of how to apply, click here.

Membership fees

The fees for 2019 are:

Members (MRSS): £191

Fellows (FRSS): £229

How to apply

Entrants are required to submit an online application form which comprises a short CV and artist statement, as well as up to ten images. The fee for entry is £43.00.

Full information and the application form are available on the Parker Harris website

Suppliers' Circle

In addition, the Royal Society of Sculptors has recently launched the Suppliers' Circle to enable related businesses and individuals to support the Society and engage with our members.

The annual fee is £350 and benefits include an introductory mention to our members and followers via our e-newsletters, a web listing, invitations to private views and access to sponsorship opportunities.

To discuss joining the Suppliers' Circle, contact Caroline Worthington at director@sculptors.org.uk