Established in 2018, Uncool Artist is an artist-run creative community that has evolved with time. The UA Gallery is our new initiative, representing a diverse collective of artists from across the globe. We take immense pride in being a self-funded entity, deliberately avoiding dependence on external funding sources. Instead, we employ innovative strategies for exhibiting, selling, and advancing our artistic endeavors, allowing collaboration with established art institutions and key players in the art scene.
Our collective commitment revolves around nurturing meaningful connections and engaging in collaborative art projects. Within this innovative space, marked by a sincere dedication to artists and unwavering respect for esteemed professionals in the contemporary art world, we embrace the principle of self-sustainability. Here, artists support each other in their creative endeavors, challenging and redefining the traditional artist x gallery relationship. Our goal is to create a supportive environment fostering artistic growth and collaboration.
Situated in front of the Brooklyn Navy Yard, our recently acquired space is a 1,000-square-foot storefront. This strategically located gallery provides a dynamic platform for artistic expression, collaboration, and market exposure. It symbolizes our commitment to offering artists a vibrant space where creativity knows no bounds, and the artist’s voice is celebrated. Join us in this exciting venture where innovation meets tradition, and together, we redefine the narrative of contemporary art.
Establishing an international artistic career involves substantial investment. Artists circulating globally, studying, or participating in international residencies may cost dozens or hundreds of thousands of dollars annually. No joke! If they’re not footing the bill, someone else is, and that someone holds the reins on the return on their investment.
How about we share and grow together as a community of artists? We can support each other in showcasing our work, making sales, deciding our next steps, and connecting with a fantastic, strong, established, and well-developed network.
UA Gallery disrupts this paradigm, granting artists complete control over their careers, offering a chair on the board for folks who are able to share a fraction of the costs (each chair can also be shared, making it even more affordable – DM us to discuss this detail). As an artist-run organization committed to ethical practices and vehemently against “pay for show” arrangements, we prioritize collaboration, empowering artists to steer their own course in the global art market from the heart of NYC.
UA Gallery Artist Association:
Every artist associate within the UA Gallery Artist Association is an integral part of our gallery’s decision-making board, reflecting our commitment to shared governance. This unique structure aligns with our values, fostering a community of dedicated artists and responsible investment in our artistic journeys. We believe in connecting our works with appreciative audiences through an innovative gallery format.
Benefits, Rights, and UA Access Membership:
As a UA Gallery Artist Associate, you’ll enjoy various privileges, serving as a gallery board member with decision-making agency. These include guaranteed solo exhibitions in New York, every three years, participation in yearly curated group exhibitions, and exposure in select art fairs and online marketplaces. Additionally, artists receive a professionally crafted portfolio under the UA Gallery imprint and prominent visibility on online platforms. Artist Associates will keep 80% of their sales.
Beyond gallery affiliation, artists gain UA Access Membership, unlocking participation in various Uncool Artist online association activities. This encompasses in-person and online open studios, talks, field trips, and the opportunity to propose group exhibitions and special projects.
Non-Exclusivity and Obligations:
UA Gallery Associate Artists have the freedom to maintain their artistic independence and explore other engagements, given the non-exclusive nature of the contract. It is crucial for artists to actively participate in UA Gallery-centric events and engage in committee responsibilities, including marketing and exhibition planning. The shared responsibility of upholding UA Gallery’s values is integral to our collaborative artistic community.
Financial Commitments:
Financial commitments include a $600 joining fee and a monthly contribution of $300.
Contract Duration and Termination:
The association spans three years without exclusivity constraints. As gallery board members, Artists Associates can renew without initiation fees.
Application Procedure:
Artists are invited to submit their current portfolio, which can be an online PDF file, a website, or an Instagram account. Include details on your goals, dedication to your craft, and how your artistry and collaborative spirit would benefit our community.
Note:
We currently have a cap of 40 artists we can welcome. Throughout the application process, we will conduct interviews and approve accepted candidates on a first-come, first-served basis. If candidates are approved after the initial 40 slots are filled, they will be added to our waitlist in the order of their application.
Images of the space:Â https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/19HRwuxUpLd3IN92pkhZYN2uayr6fJPT-?usp=share_link
Floorplan:Â https://drive.google.com/file/d/12BROtWPuy2MRrKYRcgGzV_38sIRrWsQv/view?usp=sharing
If you have questions, send us an email to gallery@uncoolartist.com
Please don’t send materials through email. They won’t be considered.
Applications deadline: Feb 04 (SUN), 2024, at 11:59 pm (ET)
Link for apply: https://uncoolartist.formstack.com/forms/ua_gallery_application