An artist must become a member before exhibiting their work at Co|So. To apply to become a Professional Artist Member, please fill out a Preliminary Application ($25 fee) by clicking the link below. If approved, you’ll be invited to submit a Professional Membership Application.

Application Process / Cost transparency

• Preliminary Application: $25
  • 4 images of your work.
• Professional Membership Application: $100 deposit
  • 6 images, 2 physical pieces of artwork, image list, CV, and a professional reference.
  • If accepted by our credentialed Membership Committee, there is a one-time acceptance administration fee of $1,000.
• All Professional Artist Members pay yearly dues of $450

We recognize that the acceptance administration fee may present a financial barrier. If this applies to you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Co|So staff.

• Solo Exhibition Opportunities – Eligible to apply for solo shows in the Upper Gallery.
• Alcove Exhibitions – Eligible for Alcove Shows in the Lower Gallery.
• Member Shows – Eligible to apply for Member Shows curated by Co|So.
• Small Works Shows – May submit up to three pieces per quarterly Small Works Shows.
• Professional Development – Access to workshops focused on career-building, marketing, and technical skill development.
• Artist Exchanges & Workshops – Ability to host / attend Artist Exchanges and workshops in the gallery space.
• All Professional Member Show once a year – jurying for inclusion, one piece guaranteed in the show.

An artist must become a member before exhibiting their work at Co|So. To apply to become a Professional Artist Member, please fill out a Preliminary Application ($25 fee) by clicking the link below. If approved, you’ll be invited to submit a Professional Membership Application.

Application Process / Cost transparency

• Preliminary Application: $25
  • 4 images of your work.
• Emerging Artist Membership Application: $25 deposit
  • 6 images, 2 physical pieces of artwork, image list, CV, and a professional reference.
  • If accepted by our credentialed Membership Committee, there is a one-time acceptance admin fee of $500.
• All Emerging Artist Members pay yearly dues of $250

We recognize that the acceptance administration fee may present a financial barrier. If this applies to you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Co|So staff.

• Alcove Exhibitions – Eligible for Alcove Shows in the Lower Gallery.
• Member Shows – Eligible to apply for Member Shows curated by Co|So.
• Small Works Shows – May submit up to three pieces per quarterly Small Works Shows.
• Professional Development – Access to workshops focused on career-building, marketing, and technical skill development.
• Artist Exchanges & Workshops – Ability to host / attend Artist Exchanges and workshops in the gallery space.

Full time students (at the college level and higher) are encouraged to join Co|So, beginning with a Preliminary Application at no cost. Once your application has been reviewed, we may invite you to come into the gallery (or attend virtually) for a portfolio review with our team. Once accepted, students are entitled to many of the benefits available to Professional Artist Members at the gallery. If you have any questions, please reach out to staff at info@copleysociety.org

• No recurring fee as long as you are enrolled as a full-time student.

• Annual All Members Show – Opportunity to collaborate on and participate in a large Group Exhibition at Co|So.

• Small Works Shows – May submit up to three pieces per quarterly Small Works Shows.

• Professional Development – Access to workshops focused on career-building, marketing, and technical skill development.

• Artist Exchanges & Workshops – Ability to host / attend Artist Exchanges and workshops in the gallery space.

Patron membership is greatly appreciated and relied upon to help support the educational community outreach programs so essential to the organization’s mission, which was set forth more than 145 years ago.

Become a Friend of Co|So – $300
Benefits include invitations to previews and exhibitions, advance notice of special events, a chance to win original artwork by Copley Society artists, a 10% discount on gallery purchases (up to $150 per piece), an invitation to participate in our semi-regular Patron’s Choice award, and 2 tickets to the annual Fresh Paint Gala.

Mission

Co|So Circle connects young art enthusiasts with the rich cultural life of Boston. As part of the Copley Society of Art, Co|So Circle offers access to artists, exhibitions, and conversations that spark curiosity and creativity. Its mission is to foster meaningful connections between emerging cultural leaders and the arts community, creating a welcoming space for participation, discovery, and growth. 

Vision

Co|So Circle envisions a community of young people who see art as an essential part of their lives. Through experiences that are social, approachable, and engaging, Co|So Circle nurtures the next generation of cultural supporters who will shape the future of the arts in Boston. By emphasizing shared experiences rather than obligations, members gain the foundation to grow into the collectors, patrons, and advocates of tomorrow.

History

The Copley Society of Art is the oldest nonprofit art association in the United States, with a legacy of supporting artists and fostering community since 1879. Co|So Circle was first created more than a decade ago as a space for emerging art enthusiasts to connect with one another and with the gallery. After a period of dormancy, this patron program is re-emerging with a renewed focus on inclusivity, shared experiences, and cultivating enthusiasm for art in Boston’s next generation.

Join for just $50 per year.

Benefits of Joining

• Invitations to private studio visits and exhibition previews.
• Social gatherings that bring together art, music, and conversation in relaxed settings.
• Opportunities to meet artists, curators, and cultural leaders in approachable environments.
• Access to a network of peers who share a passion for art and culture.
• Reduced admission to select Co|So events (like our annual fundraiser) and a 10% discount on gallery purchases (up to $150 per piece).
• A welcoming space to explore collecting and supporting the arts.