Guidelines and Procedures for PSA Screening
Applicants for PSA membership submit three original works completed within the last two years. Each applicant is assigned a number which is attached to each piece for the screening.
Work is judged by all members of the board of directors present. Applicants are accepted by majority vote of the board. Board members may discuss submitted work as part of the process.
Work must be finished and gallery ready. Wet or unsigned work is considered unfinished. Two dimensional works must be wired for hanging (no clips) and must be framed. Paintings on canvas need not be framed if edges are painted either with a continuation of the image, a solid color, or with some appropriate design element. A ribbon surround on canvas edges is also acceptable. Appropriate hangers and stands must be provided for three-dimensional work.
Following are rough guidelines board members follow in evaluating submissions. These are based on generally accepted guidelines for judging art.
I. OVERALL CONSIDERATIONS
Consistency
Applicants must demonstrate consistent artistry. This is the most decisive factor in judging candidates for membership. Consistency is best demonstrated by submitting three works in the same medium. Frequently, artists stumble at membership screenings by attempting to show breadth of interests rather than work in the particular area in which they are most accomplished.
II. ARTISTIC CRITERIA
Visual Interest (50%)
Use of Elements of Art, (Color, Value, Line, Shape, Form, Texture, Space)
Use of Principles of Design, (Balance, Contrast, Emphasis, Movement, Pattern, Rhythm, Unity)
Content (25%)
Originality, (Unique, Fresh, Interesting)
Contemporary/Classical/Traditional, (Enduring the test of time.)
Communicative, (Thought Provoking, Meaningful, Expressive)
Craftsmanship (25%)
Skill and degree of quality in the work and its presentation.
GOOD LUCK!
In many respects art is an intensely personal endeavor laden with deep emotions, especially for beginning artists. Daring to show one's work before a critical audience is an emotionally charged experience. If you don't succeed the first time, keep working, and keep trying. If you work at it, your art will get better. Also keep in mind that board members and their tastes change over time. Many of us recall even Andy Warhol was rejected when he first applied to join a local Pittsburgh artists organization.