Welcome To The Visual Artists Association
A warm welcome to the VAA! We are a professional body and movement dedicated to supporting artists and creative freelancers throughout their careers. Whether you are at the very start of your creative practice or looking to take your practice to new heights, we provide the resources, guidance, and opportunities to help you succeed in the business of art.
Open to artists across the UK and internationally, we actively advocate for small creative businesses, freelancers, and artists’ rights—including fair pay, intellectual property protection, and essential business support. At VAA, we also offer professional development programs and create a friendly, collaborative space where artists can connect, learn, and grow together.
What Makes Us Different
What sets us apart is our unique approach: we work closely with art galleries, art fairs, publishers, museums, universities and art institutions to offer members exclusive access to exhibition opportunities, events, and affordable business education. By joining VAA, you gain greater agency over your artwork and enhance your credibility in the art world, helping you grow your practice and small arts business. We are here to break down barriers, open doors, to transform the landscape, fostering a culture where artists of all backgrounds are inspired and supported to reach their full potential. The VAA champion artists at all stages of their careers to succeed in the business of art.
Our Values
At VAA, we believe in the transformative power of Freedom, Aspiration, and Creativity:
- Freedom to Earn a Living from Their Creative Talents: We’re here to help artists build sustainable careers, earn a fair income, and thrive without limitations.
- Aspiration: We encourage growth, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams—no matter an artist’s background or experience level.
- Creativity: We champion the power of original artistic expression to inspire and challenge, fueling new ideas and fresh perspectives.
These values are at the heart of our community, where every artist’s voice is celebrated. We invite you to join us at VAA and unlock your full creative potential.
The VAA works with Artists at all stages of their careers, from new and emerging to prolific established Artists. Members artistic disciplines mainly range from Painting, Drawing, Sculpting, Photography, Print making, Ceramics and Mixed Media. We are an inclusive arts membership organisation and welcome new members.
FAQs
Why has the Visual Artists Association been formed?
Our development board identified a need for a professional body to support visual Artists at all stages of their career. Artists are able to benefit from access to business services, learning best practices and being part of a wider artists’ community of peers and mentors.
How do I access the member resources?
Members are given a login and password to access the website platform. Once a member you can the access The Vault. Full of resources and articles.
What Events do you hold?
The VAA hosts regular networking events, both face to face and online.
Join us for our Art Cafés, Focus Groups, Business Clinic and Online Training Webinars covering key business skills, including sales, marketing and PR for artists.
The VAA Annual Summit Conference takes place for membership and association professionals, giving the opportunity to hear the latest artist-focused achievements and the best practice insight/advice. (On Hold Due To COVID-19)
How will I receive my insurance documents?
Members are able to view their insurance policy documents online by logging into the website platform.
What happens if I wish to cancel my membership?
Members can cancel their membership in the online portal or by contacting the VAA team by phone or email.
What We Offer
Get Involved
Ready to take the next step in your artistic journey? Join VAA today! Whether you’re looking to attend workshops, collaborate with other artists, or get involved in advocating for the visual arts, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Stay Connected
Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media to stay updated on upcoming events, resources, and opportunities within the VAA community. Join a network that’s championing artists and helping shape the future of visual arts.
Visual Art Open
PRIZE FUND WORTH £10,000
The Visual Artists Association proudly presents The Visual Art Open 2025!
Overall Winner Receives:
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£2,000 Cash Prize*
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Certificate of Achievement
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Premium Annual Membership with the Visual Artists Association
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Annual Mentorship Programme
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Momentum Programme
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Solo Show/Art Exhibition in London
All Category Winners Receives:
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£250 Cash Prize*
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Premium Annual Membership with the Visual Artists Association
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Art Exhibition of Finalists in London
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Additional Online Promotion
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Certificate of Achievement
All Finalists will be awarded:
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Additional Online Promotion
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Certificate of Achievement
- Dedicated event content for personal use
- Take Part in Finalists Show
- Additional Profiling through VAA
ALL SUBMISSIONS will receive promotion on social media and email coverage to 60,000, plus an invitation to the annual show. PLUS an EXCLUSIVE Invitation to our Art Prize Webinar on 28th May