How to join the Fernie Arts Co-op
First of all, it’s a great place to show and sell your work! We’re open 364 days a year, 8 hours a day (4 hours on Sundays), and are situated in the heart of downtown Fernie. Our heritage building is a great showcase for local artisans’ talents, and we’re glad to know you want to join.
Member or Consignee
You have the choice of being either a member or a consignee. Members pay a $65 per year membership fee that includes a share in the Co-op, $40 per month rent for 5 feet of wall space, 15% commission, and must fill a minimum of three 4-hour shifts working in the store per month. Consignees pay $50 per month rent for 4 feet of wall space, and pay 25% commission. Consignees bring their work to the Co-op for display, and will re-stock as necessary.
Jurying
Our jury members assess all artists’ work proposed to be for sale in the Co-op. After you have decided whether to be a member or consignee, complete your application form (downloadable below) and bring it to the Co-op along with five pieces of your work which are display-ready. (Display-ready means just as it sounds: ready to be displayed for retail purposes: paintings must be finished, affixed with wire for hanging; jewelry or other items must be store-ready for display and sale). A $25 jury fee is required when you apply, and is non-refundable. Four jury members evaluate the work, and then we call you to let you know if you’ve been admitted to the Co-op. If you are turned down by the jury, you may reapply in 6 months.
Once your work has been accepted and you are notified, the items are displayed in the Co-op. If you are a member, you will spend a 4-hour shift being trained on standard store procedures including making sales, entering inventory, and opening and closing procedures. We have a Procedures Manual in case you need a reminder, and there are always people you can call if you need additional help.
Sales and Payments
Payments to the artist are calculated at month-end and are remitted by cheque showing sale price and commission deducted. Cheques are mailed to consignees who live out of town. Rent is payable by post-dated cheques to December of the current year.
For further information, please contact us by calling in at the store, telephoning us on 250-423-7044 or emailing us at mail@fernieartscoop.com.
Thanks for considering displaying your work at the Fernie Arts Co-op and we look forward to seeing you there soon.
