Memberships
The National Association of Foreign-Born Artists and Creatives (NAFBAC) offers professional memberships designed to support artists and creative professionals who have built their practice in the United States. Through its membership programs, NAFBAC fosters a professional network that encourages artistic dialogue, career development, and recognition within the American creative landscape.
The mission of NAFBAC is to celebrate and support the contributions of foreign-born artists and creatives while strengthening opportunities for professional growth, collaboration, and visibility. Members gain access to a community of distinguished professionals, industry events, mentorship opportunities, and programs designed to advance sustainable creative careers.
NAFBAC offers three membership tiers that reflect different stages of professional development.
Creator Membership
Eligibility
Applicants must demonstrate 1 to 3 years of sustained professional practice in a creative discipline, including:
• A portfolio evidencing original artistic contributions
• An artist statement
• A professional resume (CV)
• One letter of reference from a recognized expert in the field or a nomination by a current Mentor or Master Member
Benefits
• Inclusion in the NAFBAC annual exhibition and member catalog
• Professional profile featured on the NAFBAC website
• Access to one on one mentorship pairings
• Discounted access to industry workshops, panels, and career development events
• Eligibility to receive an advisory opinion letter with expedited turnaround
• Annual certificate and official membership badge
Annual Membership: $325. Applications are subject to a $35 non-refundable review fee.
Mentor Membership
Eligibility
Candidates must demonstrate 3 to 7 years of outstanding professional practice in their creative field, including:
• At least two solo exhibitions or five group showcases or equivalent project credits
• At least two independent press features or critical reviews
• Participation in at least one conference, lecture, or professional speaking engagement
• Two letters of reference from recognized experts in the field or nomination by a current Master Member
Benefits
All Creator Member benefits, plus:
• Feature in the NAFBAC professional directory with direct links to work or press
• Eligibility to serve on the Membership Committee and participate in selection processes
• Leading roles in workshops and portfolio reviews
• Promotion opportunities for creative services within the Association
• Ability to self-nominate for the NAFBAC Awards of Excellence in the Arts
Annual Membership: $625. Applications are subject to a $35 non-refundable review fee.
Master Membership
Eligibility
Applicants must demonstrate at least 7 years of distinguished professional experience and sustained national or international recognition, including:
• Leadership or critical roles in major organizations, cultural or educational institutions, festivals, or creative initiatives
• Receipt of significant awards, grants, fellowships, or competitive residencies
• At least four substantial press articles, reviews, or critical publications focused on the applicant’s work
• Four letters of reference from established experts or influential figures in the field or nomination by an Honorary Member
Benefits
All Mentor Member benefits, plus:
• Priority invitations for speaking engagements, programming boards, and curatorial leadership opportunities
• Featured placement in the Leaders Circle, a distinction reserved for members with sustained influence in their field
• Automatic consideration for the NAFBAC Award for Excellence in the Arts
Annual Membership: $925. Applications are subject to a $35 non-refundable review fee.
How to Apply
Applicants may submit their materials through Dropbox or Google Drive by sending the folder link to:
All required documents should be clearly organized and labeled. Applications are reviewed by the NAFBAC Membership Committee, composed of Honorary Members with expertise in the applicant’s field. Applications are reviewed on the third Friday of each month.