Membership is open to any artist producing original, two-dimensional art works residing in the Rideau Lakes (Ontario, Canada) region (Westport, Perth, Kingston, Brockville, Smiths Falls, and even beyond), novice or professional, who wishes to be a member of an organization actively involved in visual arts through critiques, workshops, seminars, shows, exhibitions, in-house and out-of-doors group painting gatherings, gallery visits and other artistic development activities. Memberships from applicants within realistic commuting distance of Westport are normally accepted provided the applicant is willing to attend monthly meetings and participate in association activities to a reasonable degree. Members are expected to attend at least 30% of the meetings and to participate in developmental programs.

Members benefit from the association with other members sharing their experience, insights, and group activities.  Members who attend at least 30% of the monthly meetings may exhibit in RLAA sponsored shows and exhibits at a modest cost. Three local venues are available for members to display a limited number of works on a rotating basis. Weekly Paint-Ins provide encouragement and socialization for participants in an informal, undirected atmosphere. Seasonal out-of-doors group painting gatherings (Paint-Outs) are hosted by volunteer members, usually at their place of residence, generally from 10 am to 4 pm; participants select their own subject, medium, and provide their own lunch. Workshops conducted by visiting artist-instructors have limited registration with a defined objective, medium, suggested skill level and a participation fee. Gallery visits, tours, and group painting trips, at a modest fee and reasonable cost, are organized throughout the year. Members have access to a current library of books, videos and publications that may be borrowed for a limited period of time.

APPLICATION FORM       INSTRUCTIONS FOR NEW MEMBERS

Applicants for membership are asked to provide the following information to the Chairperson of the Membership Committee: Full Name, Address, Telephone Number, E-mail Address and Areas of Interest. If readily available, applicants are encouraged to provide a biographical profile of 50 words or less and indicate interest in assisting any of the active association committees.

Applicants for membership should print the form available at the web link provided and bring it to one of the RLAA monthly meetings along with a cheque or cash to cover the annual membership fee. Applicants should present themselves to the Chairperson of the Membership Committee and then attend the meeting as a guest. They may then decide to join the RLAA after the meeting. Advance notification of attendance would be appreciated; the Chairperson of the Membership Committee may be contacted by E-mail at johnandclaire24@gmail.com

Membership Fees will be collected on an annual basis for the year January to December inclusive. Members joining RLAA after October 1^st will not pay for the remainder of that year. The 2009 Annual Membership Fee is $35.00. Members are expected to attend at least 30% of the meetings and to participate in developmental programs. Members are also encouraged to be actively involved in a committee of their choice.

Meetings are held on the second Friday of the month except for the months of February and July when there are no scheduled meetings. Meetings are normally held in a relaxed, congenial atmosphere at the North Crosby Hall off Old Perth Road in Westport, Ontario starting at 1 pm. A typical meeting consists of a business portion, followed by a break for refreshments, and then a planned activity. The activity varies from meeting to meeting but may consist of guest presentations, a short seminar or a critique of members’ works.  Overall, the duration of a meeting may be up to 3 hours depending on the business at hand and the planned activity.