Applying to become an associate member of PSI (2026)
We are pleased to invite applications to become associate members of the Pastel Society of Ireland.
We want to grow our society in order to promote the use of pastels and other dry media and provide a platform for pastel artists in Ireland. We recognise the huge talent that exists across the island of Ireland and we are excited to recruit new associate members to the Society.
The Pastel Society of Ireland is known for the standard and quality of work presented by its members and so we have a selection process for all applicants wishing to become associate members.
Artists wishing to be considered as an associate member must register by completing the application form at this link:
https://form.jotform.com/260535708347057
The application fee is £15 or €20 (non-refundable) although, if successful this fee will contribute towards the annual membership fee for the Society (£30 or €35 per year).
The deadline for submitting completed forms and for paying the application fee is 12 noon on Friday 17 April. There is further information on how to pay your fee below.
In addition to this form, all applicants must present three framed, exhibition-ready artworks to be judged. Judging will take place on 25 April at The Island Arts Centre, Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn, BT27 4RL. Submitted works for consideration must be delivered to the Island Arts Centre between 12.30 and 1pm on this date and must be collected between 3 and 3.30pm. Applicants will be informed of whether they have been successful within one week of judging.
The following materials are accepted by the Society: soft pastels, oil pastels, charcoal, graphite/pencil, colouring pencil or mixed dry media (where at least 80% of the piece is created using dry media pastels). It is advisable that the 3 pieces of work should be consistent in style in order for the selection panel to obtain a feeling and appreciation for those qualities that are unique to each artist.
Applicants must be 18 or over.
Associate Members are entitled to have a profile page with your bio and a selection of work on the website. You are also entitled to exhibit in the annual show in September during which time you will also have the opportunity to sell prints and cards. Everyone is highly encouraged to attend the annual AGMs as they are a great opportunity to catch up with other members and exchange ideas and pay subscription fees too. Also attendance is required in order to become a Full Member. You also have access to workshops and other events such as en plein air days and online painting challenges throughout the year. All members are encouraged to become active members; putting forward ideas and physically helping out at events. The annual subscription fee for Associate Members is £30 or €35.
Fees
Please note that at this stage you will be paying an application fee of £15 or €20 which is non-refundable. If you are accepted, the balance of £15 or €15 must be paid in order to be accepted and to exhibit in the annual show in September 2026. This balance will cover the subscription fee for the year.
The treasurer Pat Burgess deals with all application, subscription and hanging fees etc.
Treasurer email: patburgess129@gmail.com
Please clearly state what fees you are paying for and to reference your name for bank transfers. If you wish to pay by bank transfer or standing order please note the society’s bank details are as follows:
Ulster Bank
Sort Code: 980330
Account number: 10887184
BIC number: ULSBGB2B
IBAN: GB35ULSB 98033010887184