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Bournemouth Arts Club is a long-established visual arts organisation supporting artists and art enthusiasts across Bournemouth and Dorset. Founded in 1920, the club runs exhibitions, gallery visits, talks, workshops, studio visits, drawing opportunities and practical working days. Associate membership is open to anyone with an interest in art, while full exhibiting members are selected according to the club’s artistic criteria and commitment to participating in club activities.
Please complete the contact form below for more information.
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Bournemouth Arts Club was founded in 1920 following an idea developed by the head of Bournemouth’s Municipal Art College and a group of enthusiastic tutors and students.
Over more than a century, the club has brought together practising artists and people with a serious interest in visual art. Its programme is intended to inspire members, encourage artistic development and increase awareness and enjoyment of contemporary art.
When exhibiting beyond Bournemouth and Poole, the club also uses the name Southern Contemporaries.
Bournemouth Arts Club organises a changing programme of artistic and social activities, including:
The programme explores different styles, subjects and media rather than concentrating on one form of art.
Activities are scheduled throughout the year at galleries, museums, studios and community venues across Bournemouth and the wider region.
Exhibitions are a central part of Bournemouth Arts Club.
The club holds an annual exhibition in which each full member is given the opportunity to show at least one work. Other selected exhibitions are presented under the Southern Contemporaries name at galleries around Dorset and beyond.
Exhibition work is selected and curated with the involvement of an independent artist, helping the club maintain its established artistic standards.
Previous venues have included the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum, The Gallery Upstairs at Upton Country Park, the Red House Museum, Lighthouse Poole and St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery.
The club’s 106th Annual Exhibition is currently planned for January 2027 at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum.
Associate membership is open to anyone with an interest in art who would like to participate in the club’s programme.
Associates can attend activities such as talks, gallery trips, studio visits and practical working days. They do not need to submit artwork for selection and are not obliged to apply for full membership later.
This can be the most suitable starting point for someone who appreciates visual art, wants to meet local artists or would like to become more involved in Bournemouth’s creative community.
Full membership is intended for practising artists with a focused commitment to their work, experience of exhibiting and a willingness to contribute to club activities.
Applicants are elected through a selection process conducted by senior club members. Prospective full members are encouraged to join initially as associates before applying at a future selection day.
Full members can exhibit their work through the club, subject to the arrangements and selection requirements for each exhibition.
Read the full membership criteria.
Current annual membership fees are:
The membership year begins on 1 January. People joining after 1 September currently receive a half-price membership rate for the remainder of that year.
Some workshops, working days, trips and other activities may carry an additional charge.
Fees and arrangements can change, so confirm the current price when applying.
Bournemouth Arts Club may suit:
Anyone interested in associate or full membership can download the application form from the club’s membership page or contact the membership secretary.
Applicants for full membership should read the selection criteria before applying. Those who are unsure which category is appropriate can begin as an associate and decide later whether they would like to seek full membership.
Email secretary@bournemouthartsclub.co.uk with membership enquiries.
Accessibility varies because Bournemouth Arts Club activities take place at several different venues.
Members with mobility, hearing, visual or other access requirements should check directly with the club before booking an activity. The organiser can confirm step-free access, accessible toilets, parking and any practical requirements relating to workshops or visits.
Please complete this form to request more information.
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