About Us

History

In 1915 when the Panama-California Exposition opened in Balboa Park, local artists of the time showed their work to the world. Many of them joined civic leaders to organize and fund a new art museum, lending their vision to its eventual grandeur. By 1926, when the San Diego Museum of Art opened its doors, the creativity of local artists permeated its design, façade and its early collections. Thus debuted the first contribution of the San Diego Museum of Art Artists Guild. To this day, the Artists Guild continues its support of the museum.

Read more about our history and some of our members over the years:

 

Belle Baranceanu
Olaf Weighorst
Anni Baldaugh
Charles Reiffel
Ilse and Lloyd Ruocco
The Contemporary Artists of San Diego Invade the Museum - It's 1929
Donal Hord, "La Tehuana", 1936

Purpose and Benefits

The Artists Guild strengthens the bond between the museum and the artist community of San Diego County by enhancing the museum’s awareness and appreciation of local artists. In so doing it brings original art by local artists to the attention of art patrons for display and purchase.

​The Artists Guild:

  • Provides an online Sales Gallery of members’ art at no additional fee.
  • Promotes sale of members’ work at sponsored exhibitions.
  • Conducts a member art sale at its annual Fine Arts Festival.
  • Offers opportunities for member demonstrations in museum educational programs.
  • Provides social opportunities connected to exhibitions within the museum.
  • Contributes funds to museum activities and art purchases.
  • Establishes an unequaled affiliation between local fine artists and San Diego's premier arts showplace.

Membership

Membership in The San Diego Museum of Art Artists Guild requires current membership in The San Diego Museum of Art.

See Purpose and Benefits for a list of benefits enjoyed by our Artist Members. Click on Join Us in the top menu of the webpage to create an account and apply for membership.  Select the membership type you are applying for.  To be an Artist Member, you will upload 5 images of your art for Jurying. Jurying is done on the first Tuesday of every month.  

Artist Members may sell their artwork through this site.  Artwork sales are covered by the Artist Contract. You may download or print the contract for your records.

Read FAQ How do I Become an Artist Member for specific instructions on joining us!

Artist Member

Any artist who is a member of The San Diego Museum of Art may apply and participate fully in all Guild activities.

$45 / calendar year, plus one-time application fee: $15

Associate Member

Associate membership applicants include but are not limited to foundations, museums, art collectors, dealers and educators whose primary occupation is within the field of the arts and others who wish to contribute financially to the Artists Guild.
$35 dues calendar year

Student Member

Student membership is open to all currently enrolled art students with a student membership in The San Diego Museum of Art.
$25 / calendar year

Only Artist Members may be Board Directors, vote on Guild Business, enter Artists Guild exhibits, and display work on the website. Student Members will be eligible to apply to exhibit in special shows as determined by the Artists Guild Board.

All members may attend monthly board meetings, serve on a committee, plan activities and contribute suggestions to guide the Guild's future.

Support SDMAAG

We appreciate your support so that we can further promote the museum, our artists, and the fine arts. All donations are appreciated.

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